Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Raheem Sterling is keen to make a statement following his unexpected loan move from Chelsea on deadline day.
The 29-year-old forward was considered surplus to requirements by Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, leading to his transfer to Arsenal. Sterling, who previously worked with Arteta at Manchester City, could make his debut for the Gunners in the much-anticipated North London derby against Tottenham on Sunday.
“He looks great,” Arteta said. “First of all, he has a big smile on his face, a lot of energy. He’s fully engaged and wants to prove a point.”
After scoring 14 goals in 59 league appearances for Chelsea over two seasons, Sterling was excluded from the Blues’ squad for their first two Premier League matches this season. His representatives had sought clarity on his future after he was left out of the squad for Chelsea’s defeat to his former team, Manchester City.
Despite speculation linking Raheem Sterling with a move to Manchester United, Arsenal made the decisive move to secure his services. Arteta noted Sterling’s determination to regain his top form.
“When someone has that kind of drive, you sense it immediately,” Arteta said. “I don’t need to discover anything about his quality and what he can bring to the team. What I see is hunger. He’s a player who wants to play every minute of every game. When that’s not the case, he’s not happy.”
As Sterling aims to revitalize his career at Arsenal, Chelsea are focusing on their attacking options, including Mykhailo Mudryk, Christopher Nkunku, and summer signings Pedro Neto, Joao Felix, and Jadon Sancho, as they look for their second win of the season.
