“If you don’t manage him well enough, you don’t get the results” - Arsenal legend Martin Keown delivers bold claim on Raheem Sterling
Pundit Martin Keown explained how attacker Raheem Sterling could be a key piece for Arsenal in their title charge. The ex-Gunner explained how Sterling needs to be managed properly to get the best results out of him.
Arsenal made a late move for Sterling as the transfer deadline drew to a close on Friday. The 29-year-old arrived on loan from Chelsea for no loan fee, with the two sides expected to go 50-50 on his wages. Speaking on TNT Sports, Keown said:
“When (Sterling) was playing for Man City, he did his best work running off the ball,” Keown said before TNT Sports’ live coverage of Arsenal vs Brighton.
The Gunners legend continued:
“They were finding him in those little pockets with that little ball inside the full-back. When he runs with the ball, he’s not as good a player. If you don’t manage him well enough, you don’t get the results.
"I think for Arteta, he could be the trump card for Arsenal. Got to get him back in the fold quickly and work with him. He’s come in really late, but it’s a really interesting and intriguing signing.”
Arteta and Sterling worked together at Manchester City before the Spaniard left to became the Arsenal boss in December 2019. Sterling moved to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2022. He has failed to impress with the Blues, bagging just 14 league goals across two campaigns.
Sterling, though, could prove to be a solid rotational option on either wing for Arteta as the North London side look to beat Manchester City to the Premier League title race.
He could be used to provide Bukayo Saka much-needed rest, with the Gunners star coming off a hectic campaign playing close to 4000 minutes last season. Saka was also being heavily involved for England at Euro 2024, where they reached the final (losing 2-1 to Spain).
Analysing Arsenal's attacking options following Raheem Sterling arrival
The Gunners completed a loan move for Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling towards the closing hours of the summer transfer window. The 29-year-old joins an admirable list of talented players under Arteta at the Emirates.
Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz are the top options for a Gunners side that bagged an incredible 91 goals in the league last season. Belgian Leandro Trossard contributed strongly as well, with the trio combining for 41 league goals.
With Gabriel Martinelli failing to impress (six goals and four assists in the league last season), Sterling could earn the starting role at left wing. The attacker's wealth of experience could come in handy for a side looking to win their first league title in 21 years.