Chelsea has reportedly made a decision about Raheem Sterling ahead of the January transfer window, despite his underwhelming loan spell at Arsenal.
The 30-year-old winger has struggled to make an impact since his temporary move to the Gunners in August.
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Sterling, who has 82 caps for England, has played 11 matches for Mikel Arteta’s team, scoring just one goal and providing two assists. ..Continue Reading
Although he started Arsenal’s Carabao Cup victory over Crystal Palace last week, his playing time in the Premier League and Champions League has been limited, often remaining on the bench.
Nevertheless, according to The Athletic, Chelsea has decided not to recall Sterling from his season-long loan at the Emirates in January.
Despite limited minutes on the pitch, Sterling is reportedly content to stay at Arsenal, where he has become well-liked in the dressing room.
Sterling, who missed Arsenal’s last Premier League game due to injury, is said to be determined to earn a spot in the team during the second half of the season.
Arsenal manager Arteta recently expressed sympathy for Sterling, attributing his limited playing time to the team’s injury woes and suspensions.
‘He’s very good in the dressing room and is absolutely desperate to play,’ Arteta said about Sterling.
‘When he hasn’t started the games, 90 per cent of the subs that I make is related to saving minutes or because of injuries or avoiding injuries. It’s not tactical reasons.’
Sterling’s loan spell at Arsenal will end after this season, at which point he will return to Chelsea.
His contract at Stamford Bridge is valid until 2027, having signed a five-year agreement in 2022 when he transferred from Manchester City for £47.5m.
Meanwhile, ex-Liverpool striker Stan Collymore recently told Metro that Sterling has been the Premier League’s ‘flop of the season.’