Raheem Sterling was named in the Arsenal starting XI for the Gunners’ trip to face Bournemouth on Saturday evening.
Covering for the injured Bukayo Saka on the right wing, Raheem Sterling made it back to back Premier League starts for Arsenal.
However, it was not the night that the Chelsea loanee would’ve hoped for, as the Gunners were condemned to their first defeat of the season.
Arsenal suffered a 2-0 loss in this Premier League encounter on the south coast, and Sterling’s involvement was ultimately brief.
After William Saliba was deemed guilty of denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, following a VAR review, he was shown a red card on the half-hour mark. Just seven minutes later, Arteta sought to restore the strength of his defensive contingent by bringing on Jakub Kiwior. Sterling was the man to make way for the Polish defender.
Prior to being hooked, Sterling had attempted to make things happen in the final third. However, whenever the 29-year-old received the ball, his final pass or shot was lacking in the required quality.
Arsenal fans slam Raheem Sterling after Bournemouth display
Arsenal fans on X were far from impressed by what the 82-cap England international was able to deliver against Bournemouth.
One supporter claimed: “Sterling was rubbish before being taken off. Yes he tried to make a run but did not have the vision to release the ball quickly when in the box. He was not adding any value.”
Another said: “Sterling was totally off…literally walking by 10th minute and you’re a winger.”
One stated: “Not even trying to put down sterling but the gap in ability, creativity and overall decision making between any replacement for Saka always kills the team.”
Another fan added: “I thought sterling has looked awful. He tries for 10 minutes doesnt get penalty then sulks. Hes so lazy tracking back. Doesnt seem like an arteta player at all.”
Mikel Arteta must give Sterling time
Sterling arrived at the Emirates Stadium on transfer deadline day having endured a tough spell at Chelsea, and without having been a regular starter for some time.
He has proven himself in the Premier League before, and will add important experience to Arteta’s ranks, but must be given time to rediscover his confidence and form.
Arsenal secured a good deal for Sterling from a financial perspective this summer, and if he is given the opportunity to get back to his best then he could still prove a bargain signing and make a big impact for the North London club.
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