Liverpool legend claims one Arsenal star has ‘gone backwards’ under Mikel Arteta, he’s getting worse

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Mikel Arteta has helped a lot of players improve whilst at Arsenal, but he still needs more time with one of his signings.

Kai Havertz is perhaps the best example of a player turning around their fortunes under Arteta, as he is now a crucial figure in this Arsenal side after initially struggling.

Havertz is one of several players who joined from Chelsea, and Raheem Sterling followed him to the Emirates this summer after a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge.

However, Sterling is yet to impress in limited minutes, and he has now been slammed by Liverpool legend Didi Hamann.

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Didi Hamann criticises Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling

Speaking to Flashscore, Hamann claimed that Sterling is nowhere near the world-class levels he showed at Manchester City over the years, and pointed out why this might not change any time soon.

“I hope we see the Raheem Sterling we saw at Liverpool and Manchester City, but I don’t think we’ll see him reach those levels at Arsenal,” Hamann stated.

“He’s 29 years old now, he’s losing his pace and tenacity. If you look at his form, he’s gone backwards since leaving Manchester City. I doubt he’ll improve again.”

Sterling has made seven appearances in all competitions since his deadline-day loan move from Chelsea, but has provided just one goal and one assist, both of which came in the Carabao Cup against Bolton Wanderers.

Is it too early to write off Raheem Sterling?

Reports have indicated that Arsenal will push for other targets instead of aiming to keep Sterling beyond his initial loan, but it is perhaps too early to criticise Sterling.

The Englishman has started just twice in the league, and was substituted early against Bournemouth as a result of William Saliba’s red card.

Havertz showed that with time and confidence, players can flourish under Arteta, but Sterling will have to step up and show his experience over the course of the season if he is to earn a permanent move to Arsenal.