Raheem Sterling handed brutal Arsenal prediction after what Mikel Arteta has ‘told him’

Mark Lawrenson has cast doubt on Raheem Sterling’s chances of becoming a key player for Arsenal this season, despite the England winger’s surprise move to the Gunners on transfer deadline day.

After being left out in the cold by Chelsea’s new boss Enzo Maresca, Sterling made the switch to The Emirates, where he’s set to vie for a spot with stars like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard. Sterling has already featured against Tottenham and Atalanta since his arrival, but Lawrenson believes his role will be limited under Mikel Arteta’s stewardship.

Speaking to Paddy Power ahead of Arsenal’s title showdown against Manchester City, the ex-Liverpool defender and pundit expressed his view: “At Arsenal, I think Raheem Sterling will solely be used for squad depth, I don’t see him breaking into the starting team. I’d imagine that the manager will have already told him that he’ll be a 25-minute man each week and that will be it, unless he does well when he gets a chance.

“I’ve been quite impressed with Arsenal in recent years and they know that the game against Manchester City this weekend is a massive game for them and I have a feeling that they will go to the Etihad and take home all three points.”

Arsenal’s pursuit of their first domestic league title in over two decades comes with much anticipation, bolstered by the arrival of Sterling who brings valuable experience to the table. Last season saw the Gunners narrowly miss out on topping Premier League rivals Manchester City, and Sterling’s impressive haul of four titles during his time at The Etihad has been highlighted as a significant asset.

Despite some voices of scepticism regarding Sterling’s transfer, Mikel Arteta shared his confidence in the decision: “After 10 seconds I knew we had to bring him (to Arsenal) because he really wanted it, and that was my only question mark, what stage is he at in his career? But after 10 seconds I knew.

“He looks great. He has got a big smile on his face, a lot of energy and he wants to prove a point. When someone has got that in their belly you sense it straight away. I don’t need to discuss his quality and what he can bring to the team.”