Raheem Sterling remains confident in his ability to make a significant impact at Arsenal, insisting he has a "big part to play" in helping the club achieve its ambitions. Despite a challenging loan spell at the Emirates Stadium, where he has often been overshadowed by the rise of 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, Sterling is determined to prove his worth.
The 30-year-old has seen limited playing time, clocking just 307 minutes in the Premier League—equivalent to less than three-and-a-half full matches—and contributing only one goal and two assists in domestic and European cup competitions. However, Sterling delivered a standout performance in Arsenal’s recent 2-2 draw against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League round of 16, providing assists for both goals and helping secure a 9-3 aggregate victory.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Sterling expressed his desire for more playing time under manager Mikel Arteta: "I know what I am capable of. You just want to be playing. You are at a top club with top players, and you have to wait for your moment. That is what I am doing. I am still faithful that I have a big part to play."
Sterling admitted he hasn’t had as many minutes as he would have liked but remains focused on making the most of every opportunity. "It is down to myself to keep knocking at the door," he said. "I believe I have a lot to offer here, whether it’s 10 minutes, 45, or a start. I just need to be ready and try to help the team as much as possible."
While Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes are fading, Sterling praised the squad’s efforts and emphasized their determination to finish the season strong. "Yes, we are a few points behind, but there are different circumstances for that. The boys have done really well, and we’re ready to give it a push in the final stretch."
Sterling’s performance against PSV will have undoubtedly caught Arteta’s attention. The Spaniard has often preferred a front three of Nwaneri, Mikel Merino, and Leandro Trossard during Arsenal’s injury crisis, with Gabriel Martinelli also returning to fitness and competing for a spot on the left wing. Bukayo Saka, sidelined with a hamstring injury, is expected to return in April, while Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are ruled out for the rest of the 2024/25 season, including Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.
Sterling’s focus now is on solidifying his place in Arteta’s plans and contributing to Arsenal’s quest for success in both domestic and European competitions.
