In a last-minute transfer deadline deal, Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling has secured a season-long loan to Premier League rivals Arsenal. The 29-year-old England international has opted for a move to North London after being informed by Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, that he was not part of his plans for the season.
Reflecting on the transfer, Sterling expressed his excitement: “It’s an incredible feeling, and I’m really looking forward to this new chapter. We may have left it late, but it’s the opportunity I was hoping for. When I considered everything, it felt like the perfect fit for me, and I’m thrilled we made it happen.”
Chelsea Departure After Two Seasons
Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in July 2022 for a transfer fee of £50 million, becoming one of the first signings under the club’s new ownership led by Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly. During his time at Stamford Bridge, Sterling made 81 appearances and found the back of the net 19 times. Last season, he played 43 matches across all competitions, but with the arrival of Maresca and Chelsea’s summer spending spree of over £200 million on 11 new players, Sterling found himself sidelined from the first-team plans.
This exclusion was highlighted when Sterling was left out of Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City. In response, his representatives sought clarification on his future with the club, ultimately paving the way for his move to Arsenal.
Reunion with Arteta at Arsenal
Sterling’s transfer to Arsenal reunites him with Mikel Arteta, who was part of the coaching staff at Manchester City during Sterling’s time there. The forward also discussed the appeal of joining Arteta’s side: “I spoke with Edu, and you can really sense the unity that has developed under Mikel. The team is on an exciting journey, and the hunger and togetherness are qualities I’m eager to be a part of.”
Sterling, who has been capped 82 times by England and played a crucial role in their runner-up finish at Euro 2020, has not featured for the national team since December 2022. His move to Arsenal marks a fresh start and an opportunity to regain his place in the international setup.
