Arteta Explains Raheem Sterling Absence Against Man Utd

Mikel Arteta chose not to bring on Raheem Sterling in Arsenal 1-1 draw against Manchester United, citing tactical reasons. Despite missing key players, Arteta used only three of five substitutes, including Kieran Tierney. Sterling, on loan from Chelsea, has struggled, recording just one goal and two assists in 863 minutes across all competitions.

For the second consecutive Premier League match, Raheem Sterling remained on the bench as Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Despite an ongoing injury crisis, Mikel Arteta opted not to use the 30-year-old winger, explaining that his decision was based on how the game unfolded. Arsenal fell behind to a Bruno Fernandes free-kick but equalized through Declan Rice in the second half. However, they failed to find a winner, leaving them 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool, effectively ending their title hopes.

Arteta made only three substitutions, introducing Gabriel Martinelli, Kieran Tierney, and another unnamed player while leaving Sterling unused. The Spaniard defended his choice, stating that he evaluates which players fit best during a match. Sterling, who joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea last summer, has struggled for form, registering just one goal and two assists in 863 minutes across all competitions. His only goal came against League One side Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup.

With Arsenal leading PSV Eindhoven 7-1 on aggregate in their Champions League last-16 tie, Arteta remained non-committal about whether Sterling would start the second leg. His limited game time raises questions about his role in Arsenal’s plans moving forward.