Football

Where would Raheem Sterling fit in at Arsenal?

May 10, 2022 9:09 am

Raheem Sterling has been impressing for Manchester City in recent weeks. But his long-term future at the club remains in doubt.

Sterling has not always been favoured by City boss Pep Guardiola. The forward’s contract expires next summer. And according to the Telegraph, Arsenal are ready to pounce.

The Gunners have certainly improved as the season has gone on. From relegation threats early in the campaign, the side are now battling for fourth. Mikel Arteta has done a fantastic job. But he will need reinforcements next season if the club are to fight on all fronts.

The boss will want to strengthen in many areas. But a lack of goals has been a particular problem. Arsenal have scored the fewest goals for teams in the top seven of the Premier League table this season.

Sterling could certainly be a player identified to help rectify this. He has 12 in the current league campaign, and 16 in all competitions. The winger recently netted his 50th Premier League goal at the Etihad.

Where would Raheem Sterling play at Arsenal?

The ex-Liverpool man has found himself in many attacking positions throughout his career. At his current club, he largely plays out wide. But he’s also spent time as a centre forward and second striker.

Such versatility would be a huge incentive for Arteta to bring him to Arsenal. The manager has settled on a 4-2-3-1 formation this season. And the club’s exciting, young front four have enjoyed much success.

Martin Odegaard pulls the strings in the middle, supported by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli out wide. And lately, Eddie Nketiah has done a superb job up top.

But one can only imagine what the experienced Sterling could bring to that attacking lineup. He’s just 27, but has already achieved so much in his career so far. And there is undoubtedly plenty more to come.

First and foremost, the Gunners need a world-class striker. Nketiah knows where the back of the net is. But many question whether he is the man to lead this exciting team in the years to come.

And while Sterling could be thrown up top, he is undoubtedly most dangerous on the wing. And that could be exactly where he may find himself should he make the switch to London. Martinelli is another exciting talent, but the Man City man would more than likely be a regular starter on the left.

That said, the Gunners could be in many competitions next season. That means a big squad is crucial, and such wingers could be regularly rotated.

Will the winger leave Man City?

Sterling will have just one year left on his City contract this summer. But his playing time could be seriously reduced upon the arrival of Erling Haaland. According to the latest reports, that deal is all but done.

After enjoying much success in Manchester, Sterling will be seeking the very highest level of football once again. His decision could, therefore, rest on whether or not Arsenal secure Champions League football.

The Gunners are currently in the driving seat for fourth. They sit four points ahead of North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who are in fifth. But Arsenal may even have their sights set on third place. They are just one point behind London rivals Chelsea.

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