Danny Murphy, former Tottenham midfielder, has lauded Arsenal’s decision to sign Sterling
Arsenal made some significant moves in the just concluded transfer window.
They brought in four new players: David Raya on a permanent deal, Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, and Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan from Chelsea.
Among these signings, Sterling’s arrival has garnered the most attention.
The 29-year-old winger is set to bring a new dimension to the Gunners’ attack for the 2024/25 season.
Sterling’s transfer comes after a period of uncertainty at Chelsea, where he has struggled to secure a regular starting spot under the new management.
He found himself on the fringes of the squad despite his impressive resume, which includes four Premier League titles.
His move to Arsenal represents a fresh start and an opportunity to reignite his career.
Danny Murphy prediction
In his piece for the Daily Mail, Murphy has no doubts about the value Sterling will bring to the Gunners.
“Arsenal signing Raheem Sterling is an incredible piece of business. He’s a winner, a four-time league champion. He isn’t going to be phased by the size of the club and the level of expectancy from the fan base. The more players you have in the dressing room that have won trophies, the more it rubs off on those around you. It’s about showing a mentality and calmness in decisive moments and Raheem was a huge part of that at Manchester City.”
Murphy also highlighted Sterling’s versatility, noting that his ability to play across the front line could be a game-changer for Arsenal.
“So, too, was Mikel Arteta. Raheem knows the high standards that Arteta sets. Likewise, Arteta knows how good a professional Raheem is and what a great role model he is. It’s not just Raheem’s influence in the dressing room but impact on the pitch. He’s versatile and can play across the front line, on both wings, as a striker and as a false nine. The one area where Arteta has found it difficult at times is strength in depth on the right wing.”
He also believes Sterling’s arrival provides much-needed depth and could help manage Bukayo Saka’s workload, who has often been Arsenal’s sole reliable option on the right wing.
“That meant he often ran Saka into the ground. Sterling’s arrival gives Arteta an opportunity to rest Saka when needed. The reality is if Arsenal want to be at that elite level, they need that strength in depth. Raheem will play more games than people think because if he gets anywhere near his best he’ll be starting.”
Arteta’s assessment
Following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Brighton, Arteta spoke about integrating Sterling into the team.
“Yes, we’ll have to see and speak to him on what he’s been doing and how he’s feeling about it. We have to try to find quick wins to get him up to speed as quick as possible and him understanding what we are looking for from him and the dynamics of the team. We will use this time to do that and as soon as possible, get him involved.”
CS opinion
Murphy’s assessment aligns well with the potential impact Sterling could have at Arsenal.
Despite some skepticism from the fan base, Sterling’s signing seems like a solid move, offering much-needed backup for Saka and possibly exceeding expectations.
We might witness another transformation similar to that of Kai Havertz.
