Is it the right time for Mikel Arteta to unleash Raheem Sterling?

Arsenal face Manchester City and the question on many minds is whether Mikel Arteta will unleash Raheem Sterling in this pivotal clash on Sunday.

Sterling, who made the switch from City to Chelsea, has consistently shown he possesses the ability to unsettle his former team.

His knack for finding the back of the net against City, even during a turbulent period for Chelsea, highlights his potential as a game-changer.

In November 2023, Sterling played a crucial role in a thrilling 4-4 draw, showcasing his ability to score in high-pressure situations.

He opened the scoring in a February 2024 encounter at the Etihad, only to be matched by Rodri’s late equaliser. This ability to strike first could be vital for Arsenal, who might need to take the initiative against a team as dominant as City.

Moreover, during a club-friendly in August 2024, Sterling scored again against City, reinforcing the notion that he thrives in these matchups.

With his pace and experience, Sterling could provide the attacking edge that Arsenal need to breach City’s defences, especially given that they may adopt a more cautious approach early in the game.

However, Arteta must consider the bigger picture. While Sterling’s previous performances against City are compelling, he must also weigh how well he fits into Arsenal’s current system and rhythm.

If Arteta believes Sterling can integrate seamlessly into the line-up and exploit City’s vulnerabilities, it might just be the perfect time to unleash him.

Ultimately, Sterling’s history against City presents a tantalising opportunity for Arsenal. If Arteta can harness that potential, it could make all the difference in a match that could define their title ambitions.