The 35-goal reason Mikel Arteta must change Raheem Sterling’s role at Arsenal immediately

Add as preferred source on Google

Raheem Sterling is running out of time to impress at Arsenal following his transfer from Chelsea in the summer.

Arsenal struck a deal with their London rivals to acquire Sterling on loan until the end of the 2024/25 season.

Sterling made a bold promise upon signing for the Gunners to contribute to success with Mikel Arteta’s squad but, he’s yet to show his best form in red and white.

Since making the move from Chelsea to Arsenal, Sterling has been criticised by fans for his lack of potency going forward which, amid an injury crisis, is far from acceptable. 

• READ MORE: Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta completely disagrees with what Gary Neville has said about Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling’s career record as a striker 

Having just 19 appearances under his belt this season, it’s clear to see that Arteta doesn’t fully trust the 30-year-old to make an impact in the Arsenal squad. 

It’s not only Arteta who has concerns about Sterling’s form but, the manager must find a way to make the most out of the time remaining in the winger’s loan spell.

Martin Keown emphasised that Sterling isn’t a strong runner on the wing, which is one of the several reasons that the former England international has been criticised this term.

Amid Arsenal’s injury crisis, more needs to be seen from the former Manchester City star, with the last resort being a bold tweak to his role in the front line.

Despite Mikel Merino’s shock cameo as a striker against Leicester City, Arteta could be tempted to try Sterling in the number nine role, which history tells us could work to the Spaniard’s benefit.

As seen above, the four-time Premier League winner has a potent record when playing as a centre-forward, contributing to 35 goals – scoring 25 times and assisting 10.

Mikel Arteta must follow Pep Guardiola’s advice for Sterling

With an array of first-choice attackers out of action, Sterling must step up, with more needing to be seen than what was on show against Leicester City.

Arteta could be bold and try the loanee out in the central role, that has worked before in his career, most prominently at Chelsea and Manchester City.

In 2019, Pep Guardiola spoke highly of Sterling’s capabilities as a number nine, via Manchester City’s official website. 

“On the first day he [Sterling] played striker and for me, striker will be an incredible position for him. He can play in three positions up front.

“They are incredibly talented players but they need the group, they need the team. When the team takes a step forward he plays better.

“But I know the special quality of the player, the consistent physicality and the finishing.”

Whether Arteta takes Guardiola’s advice and trials Sterling centrally remains to be seen, in what could be a last chance at redemption for the forward at Arsenal.