Mikel Arteta believed in the "romantic potential" of reuniting with Raheem Sterling at Arsenal following their time together at Manchester City, according to a new report from The Athletic. The Arsenal manager personally pushed for the loan move, seeing it as an opportunity to rekindle their successful professional relationship.
Sterling joined Arsenal seeking stability after struggling for regular playing time at Chelsea. However, his time in north London has not gone according to plan, with the former England international making just 10 starts across all competitions this season.
The deal to bring Sterling to Arsenal was primarily driven by financial considerations. There was no transfer fee or loan fee involved, with the Gunners only responsible for covering a portion of the player's wages. Despite Arteta's initial enthusiasm for the move, the lack of a purchase option in the loan agreement has seemingly diminished the manager's motivation to prioritize Sterling's playing time over established options like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
Chelsea reportedly plan to offload Sterling permanently in the summer transfer window. However, the club acknowledges that his substantial wages could significantly limit the number of potential suitors capable of securing his signature.
Sterling's immediate focus will be on this weekend's London derby as Arsenal face his parent club Chelsea. The Gunners are desperately trying to keep pace with Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have established a commanding 15-point advantage following Saturday's fixtures.
The upcoming match presents an interesting subplot in Sterling's season, as he faces the club that deemed him surplus to requirements while representing a team where he's similarly struggled to make a significant impact despite the manager's initial "romantic" vision for his arrival.
