Arsenal have been dealt a setback ahead of their highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid, as Raheem Sterling will miss the match due to suspension. The experienced winger picked up a yellow card during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with PSV, which resulted in a one-game suspension after accumulating too many bookings in the competition.
### **A Blow to Arsenal’s Squad Depth**
While Sterling has not been a regular starter under Mikel Arteta this season, his absence will still be a frustration for the manager. The former Chelsea and Manchester City winger has primarily been used as an impact substitute, offering valuable experience and pace off the bench. With Arsenal set to face one of Europe’s most dangerous teams, losing a seasoned Champions League player like Sterling is far from ideal.
EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS – MARCH 04: Raheem Sterling of Arsenal runs with the ball under pressure from Olivier Boscagli of PSV Eindhoven during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 first leg match between PSV and Arsenal FC at PSV Stadion on March 04, 2025 in Eindhoven, Netherlands. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arteta has spoken highly of the depth in his squad, but with such a crucial game coming up, he would have undoubtedly preferred to have all options available. Sterling’s ability to stretch defenses and create space in the final third could have been a useful asset against a disciplined Real Madrid side.
### **Arsenal’s Attacking Options Without Sterling**
Despite Sterling’s suspension, Arsenal still boast an impressive attacking lineup. The likes of Ethan Nwaneri, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard will be expected to step up in his absence. Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice will also play key roles in dictating the midfield battle against Madrid’s world-class talents.
Additionally, the return of some injured players could provide Arteta with more flexibility when selecting his squad for the first leg at the Emirates Stadium. The manager will need to carefully consider his options to ensure Arsenal remain competitive against a team that has dominated European football for years.
### **Sterling’s Champions League Future with Arsenal**
Sterling’s suspension raises further questions about his future at Arsenal. Having struggled for consistent game time since joining the club on loan from Chelsea, this setback could mean fewer opportunities to impress in the latter stages of the season. With Arsenal’s attacking depth already strong, it remains to be seen whether Arteta sees Sterling as a long-term part of his plans.
### **What’s Next for Arsenal?**
With Sterling ruled out for the first leg, Arsenal must now prepare for a huge challenge against a Real Madrid side packed with experience and quality. The first leg at the Emirates Stadium on April 8 will be a pivotal moment in the Gunners’ European campaign, as they aim to take a strong result to the Santiago Bernabéu for the return leg on April 16.
Sterling may be unavailable, but Arsenal will need to rally together and use their depth to overcome one of their biggest tests of the season.