When Arsenal snapped up Raheem Sterling at the eleventh hour of the summer transfer window, it felt very much like a gamble. They were in a bind, needing that extra firepower up front, and when the choice boiled down to Sterling or nothing, Sterling it was.
Arsenal fans tempered their expectations accordingly. Despite Chelsea’s penchant for puzzling decisions lately, Enzo Maresca clearly saw fit to bench Sterling, which says a lot. The deal was a steal for Arsenal largely because Chelsea was ready to cut their losses, and it didn’t seem like any top-tier clubs were eager to swoop in.
Arsenal supporters have occasionally been burned by Chelsea transfers, though the impact of Kai Havertz and Jorginho has helped to even things out. Ultimately, Arsenal boasts one of the world’s top right wingers but has struggled with backup options. Sterling, even in his less dazzling form, seemed like a sensible stopgap.
I admit, I’m someone who places undue importance on squad numbers. It was telling to see Sterling handed the number 30 jersey, with more iconic numbers like 10, 14, and 16 still up for grabs. Sterling had no prior attachment to the 30, and it’s known that Arteta places importance on these decisions, as evidenced by his comments when Emile Smith Rowe was awarded the number 10 in 2021.
Sterling’s debut came as a sub against Tottenham in September, and it was not auspicious. His first touch led to a cheap turnover. Reality hit: this wasn’t even Sterling in decline—it was a harsh step down. Fast forward to October, and his midfield error against Southampton led to a goal against. Making things worse, Sterling spent more time arguing for a foul than winning back possession, an act unlikely to win Arteta’s favor.
His last notable start was against Bournemouth. Injuries then forced Arteta’s hand, yet even then, others were preferred. Sterling’s transfer failure became glaring amid injuries to Martinelli, Saka, and Havertz, which stretched Arsenal’s attacking options thin.
In healthier circumstances, Arsenal could’ve stashed Sterling away discreetly. Squad players come in variety: young talents cutting their teeth, reliable veterans filling gaps, challengers to the starting eleven, and those who exist to spell key players.
Our American friends might say these are ‘garbage minutes,’ those late-game stretches where, ahead or behind, you swap key players for fresh legs. Sterling’s role, not getting major headlines, might have fit as such. Surprisingly, fans haven’t expressed much venom regarding Sterling’s stint.
There’s a notable sense of wistfulness watching a player of Sterling’s caliber fade so noticeably. As Jonathan Wilson recently discussed, reaching the 500-game milestone can be a turning point for many players, a warning Arsenal’s rising stars like Saka might heed.
A prime Sterling could invigorate this team. Arsenal occasionally gets bogged down in its offensive play, lacking that cutting edge that used to make defense shiver. Sterling in his prime would be the antidote, a perfect complement for an attack sometimes wanting for flair.
I suspect Arsenal is already looking toward more direct attacking threats, eyeing the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Nico Williams. They understand the need for quicker, more incisive play.
The relative lack of ire toward Sterling stems from his temporary status; unlike Willian, who arrived on a longer deal, Sterling is simply passing through. Arsenal fans respect Sterling’s career achievements, and despite any damage he’s inflicted upon them before, his stand-out years were at City, when Arsenal wasn’t directly competing.
Sterling’s experiences with the British media may have softened fan discourse surrounding him too. I imagine Sterling has been a mentor to Myles Lewis-Skelly, helping him navigate the pressures faced by young black athletes.
Ethan Nwaneri’s rise has undeniably surpassed Sterling’s impact this season. Nevertheless, Sterling’s path—from youth sensation to seasoned pro—provides invaluable insight for Nwaneri.
While Sterling perhaps doesn’t match Arteta’s intensity demands, it doesn’t seem like he’s slacking. His hallmark burst of speed has waned, leaving behind a shell of the dynamic player he once was.
In the end, this loan spell reflects more on Chelsea’s miscalculation than Arsenal’s long-term future. Despite the clear shortcomings of Sterling’s tenure, it hasn’t been without its merits, offering lessons and perhaps some guidance for Arsenal’s promising talents.
