The remarkable late transfer deadline day development has seen Raheem Sterling leave Chelsea to join Arsenal on a season-long loan. His time at Chelsea comes to an end after a difficult spell in which he struggled under the management of Enzo Maresca.
The rumours that Sterling could move to Arsenal emerged on Thursday, when report from Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail confirmed that he was available for purchase.
Arsenal’s Deadline Day Drama
Arsenal did not simply buy Sterling as a normal transfer; he was part of the strategy that Arsenal were deploying in order to reinforce their forward ranks. With time running out, the north Londoners were able to negotiate a high-profile transaction for Sterling. The agreement also makes no guarantees of sales, which rather coyly implies a return to the Blues is not out of the question.
Chelsea will also pay his £350k-per-week wages until at least January, though there is a suggestion he could have taken a pay cut to make the move happen sooner.
Sterling expressed his excitement on starting a new chapter at Arsenal and stated how he has been looking forward to joining the club. The Englishman will be hoping to get enough minutes to re-emerge as a player who can once again perform on the biggest stages.
No Future at Chelsea
It was crystal clear that the management at Chelsea did not intend to utilize Sterling, and this led to his departure from Stamford Bridge. With Enzo Maresca overseeing the squad transformation at Chelsea, Sterling was deemed surplus to requirements and he has been allowed to move on. He was being sent out the door, but it was seen as a highly unlikely destination for Raheem Sterling until tonight.
Sterling did not fit into Maresca’s plans, as he has no plans for a winger who instinctively moves inside. Regardless, he may have been given another chance to either prove himself to the new boss or break into the current Gunners squad.
Reunion at Arsenal
Sterling will reunite with Mikel Arteta, whom he worked under during his time at Manchester City. Such prior association could end up being crucial to how Sterling fits into the Arsenal system and adjusts to Arteta’s tactical needs.
Based on his conversation with Arsenal management, Sterling commented on the feel-good factor he got from around London Colney and shared how their ambition aligns well with him beyond lighting up a positive atmosphere.
What Can Sterling Offer Arsenal?
The 29-year-old played 43 games for Chelsea last season, scoring 10 goals and making 8 assists. Being a player who can play in all three positions up front, he brings enough versatility and quality to the team. Moreover, his experience gained over the years at the three other Big Six clubs can be important in taking a leadership role in such a young squad.
This loan move allows the club to secure a quantitative addition for their squad while also creating an attractive attack on future transfer windows, making room for long-term prospects. The arrival of Sterling brings instant quality to the attacking department at Arsenal, and he will add depth to their squad as they look to compete on multiple fronts this season.
The fact that Arteta was instrumental to Sterling’s progress when together at Manchester City gives hope that he can somehow reignite the forward. Sterling thrived under Arteta, developing into one of the most dangerous attackers in the division.
Sterling’s Departure and Sancho’s Arrival
While Sterling heads for Arsenal, Chelsea have wasted no time in getting a replacement. Sancho will be the man to fill his boots at Stamford Bridge, as he is departing from Manchester United, on a loan deal. This strategic move can help in rebuilding Chelsea’s attack and keeping this side in contention for winning silverware.
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