Arsenal might reflect that the turning point against Brighton on Saturday was the decision to send off Declan Rice in the second half, halting Mikel Arteta’s side from maintaining a flawless record in their opening three games before the international break.
The Gunners have seamlessly carried on their form from last season, with a clinical victory over Wolves and a hard-fought win against Aston Villa. Despite Brighton posing challenges in recent visits to the Emirates, earning a point under the circumstances isn’t a bad outcome. However, there’s a player in Arteta’s squad looking to showcase his skills in the upcoming season.
Arsenal’s transfer activity was intriguing, with Riccardo Calafiori being the standout signing for most of the summer. The late arrivals of Mikel Merino, Neto, and Raheem Sterling offer promise for the Gunners, as they aim to overcome past obstacles.
Paul Merson views Sterling’s potential as an “amazing” addition, highlighting the winger’s capabilities. Jamie O’Hara echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the value Sterling brings to the team, despite some underappreciation by many. O’Hara sees Sterling as a key alternative to ease the workload on Saka while providing impactful moments in games.
Criticism of Arsenal’s transfer window centers on the absence of a marquee striker. Still, securing Sterling on loan emerges as a smart move. The temporary nature of the deal grants flexibility, allowing Arsenal to assess the impact before committing to a permanent arrangement.
Considering Sterling’s impressive track record with over 150 goals in top competitions and four league titles, his experience could prove invaluable for young talents like Saka and Martinelli. While the outcome remains uncertain, the deal seems well-calculated and deserving of praise at present.