Arsenal fans have already noticed one player ‘looking so much better’ after training footage of Raheem Sterling went viral.
The summer transfer window was full of surprises, but none were as surprising as Raheem Sterling’s loan move to Arsenal from Chelsea.
Sterling participated in Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the U.S. but was then omitted from the team’s Premier League opener against Manchester City.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca informed Sterling that he would have limited playing time if he stayed at Stamford Bridge this season. This led to a desperate search for a new club before the transfer window closed.
Sterling’s new destination ended up being Arsenal, who secured him on loan for the remainder of the season, with Chelsea covering most of his £325,000-per-week salary.
The 29-year-old might make his Arsenal debut in the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after the international break, generating excitement among fans about his potential impact.
Videos of Sterling training with his new Arsenal teammates have gone viral on social media, with fans highlighting his impressive footwork and dribbling skills.
Additionally, some believe Sterling’s arrival might boost the performance of another winger who had a tough season last year.
Gabriel Martinelli had an outstanding 2022-23 season with Mikel Arteta’s team but struggled to maintain that form last season and found it challenging to influence games.
Last season, fans criticized the Brazilian winger for often dribbling with his head down. However, some believe Sterling’s presence has already addressed this issue.
In reaction to training footage showing Martinelli dribbling with his head up to find Sterling, one fan tweeted: “Sterling’s been at the club for 13 seconds and Martinelli’s head is already up.”
Another fan added: “Sterling doesn’t need much time to remind everyone of his threat—looks like Martinelli’s feeling that pressure right away!”
The two are expected to vie for the starting left wing position, while Bukayo Saka is secured on the right flank.
