Mikel Arteta believed in the "romantic potential" of Raheem Sterling's move to Arsenal, according to a new report.
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Article continues below
Article continues below
- Sterling joined on promise of Arsenal stability
- Has not played as much as expected
- Arsenal only had to pay nominal fee
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Per The Athletic, Arsenal boss Arteta believed there was a romantic potential to reuniting with Sterling, having coached the former England winger during his time at Manchester City. However, he has struggled for minutes, and has made just 10 starts in all competitions.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Sterling was searching for stability after also struggling for minutes at Chelsea. However, as the Gunners did not include a purchase option in the deal to sign the forward, Arteta has not been motivated to prioritise his playing time over the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Arsenal signed Sterling mainly due to the fact that he was a low-cost option, as there was no transfer fee, nor a loan fee, and the Gunners only had to pay a portion of his wages. Arteta personally pushed for the move, but he is not likely to remain in north London. Chelsea plan to move him on in the summer, although they accept his wages may prove prohibitive and whittle down the number of potential suitors who can sign him.
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WHAT NEXT?
Arsenal play Chelsea this weekend as the Gunners look to stay in touch with runaway leaders Liverpool; the Reds are 15 points clear after Saturday's fixtures.
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