Mikel Arteta is building something special at Arsenal as the Gunners hope to end the 2024/25 campaign with silverware.
After missing out on the title to Manchester City over the past two seasons, there’s belief that this term could be Arsenal’s time to shine.
From crucial players with reputations to maintain to academy hopefuls working hard to make an impact, the Gunners have a talented group to challenge in the Premier League.
In the summer, Arsenal welcomed five new signings as well as offloading several well-loved players, with one signing proving to be impactful for reasons aside from his performances.

Raheem Sterling is influencing Bukayo Saka
Speaking as a pundit on Amazon Prime Video’s coverage of Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Manchester United, Theo Walcott opened up about Bukayo Saka.
During the coverage, Dimitar Berbatov dubbed Saka the best in the Premier League in a lengthy segment focusing on the winger’s form.
Walcott then shared his insight of the Arsenal star, praising his willingness to learn and elevate his game.
“He’s always learning, he’s always willing to ask questions,” Walcott said before singling out one of Saka’s teammates who is supporting the 23-year-old.
“He now has Raheem Sterling who has won a lot and just to pick his brain and be with him, they’re always together, for me, he’s one that doesn’t just want to learn on the pitch but off it as well.”
The former Gunner praised Sterling’s influence on Saka, hinting that the duo are close at Colney and that the Hale End graduate is learning a lot from the four-time Premier League winner.
There are worse players to be learning from, as Sterling has a phenomenal record in the Premier League, being a multiple winner of the tournament and a high scorer.
Having a figure as experienced as the former Manchester City star in the squad is a significant plus, with there now hope that he can show his worth on the pitch too.
Why Sterling hasn’t been playing for Arsenal
Very few expected that Arsenal would sign Sterling on deadline day however, Edu Gaspar sanctioned a deal to grab the forward on a season-long loan.
Away from his shackles at Chelsea, the 29-year-old joined Arsenal in the hope to rediscover form however, it’s been a rather slow start for the England international.
Arteta admitted that he is responsible for Sterling’s lack of minutes, hinting that he’s waiting for the right time to unleash the experienced dynamo, who has impressed in training.
Aside from making waves at Colney, Sterling has started to make his presence known at Arsenal, growing into his role as a fringe player.
There’s no clarity on what the future holds for the versatile winger however, his spell at Arsenal will be remembered for more than what he offers in play, as Walcott suggested.
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