Raheem Sterling has ruled out cutting short his loan at Arsenal in January, despite struggling for regular game time under manager Mikel Arteta. The winger, who joined on loan from Chelsea during the summer transfer window, remains committed to earning his place in the team.
Sterling, 30, has found opportunities limited, making just 10 appearances for Arsenal so far, only four of which have been starts—two in the Premier League and two in the Carabao Cup. His last start came at the end of October, and he has not featured at all this month.
Despite the lack of minutes, Sterling is determined to prove his worth during the second half of the season. Arteta has reassured the winger that he remains part of the club’s plans, attributing Sterling’s limited game time to injuries and suspensions affecting the squad.
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Speaking about Sterling’s situation, Arteta said, “He’s very good in the dressing room and is absolutely desperate to play. When he hasn’t started, 90 percent of the substitutions I’ve made are related to saving minutes or avoiding injuries, not tactical reasons.”
Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling (Image credit: Getty Images)
The pair share a long-standing relationship dating back to their time at Manchester City, when Arteta was an assistant coach. It is understood that they maintain open communication, with Sterling fully aware of the circumstances limiting his involvement.
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Sterling has impressed in training and built strong relationships within the Arsenal squad. His most notable contributions have come in the Carabao Cup, where he has started both games this season, scoring his only goal in a 5-1 win over Bolton in September. He hopes to feature again when Arsenal face Crystal Palace in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.
The former Manchester City star joined Arsenal on deadline day in August after being frozen out at Chelsea by Enzo Maresca, who relegated him to training with the youth team. The move to Arsenal has at least ensured Sterling’s inclusion in a competitive first-team environment.
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