NICOL: STERLING IS WORST PREM SIGNING

Liverpool icon Steve Nicol has delivered a scathing verdict on Raheem Sterling, branding the Arsenal loanee the worst signing of the Premier League season. Sterling, who joined Mikel Arteta’s side on loan from Chelsea, has struggled to make an impact, raising questions about his role and value in Arsenal’s title aspirations.

After failing to impress at Stamford Bridge, Sterling was deemed surplus to Chelsea’s requirements this season. Arteta saw potential in the 29-year-old to provide depth and competition for star wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka. However, Sterling’s return so far has been underwhelming: just 123 minutes of Premier League action and a single goal and assist in the Carabao Cup. Nicol, speaking to ESPN, pulled no punches in assessing Sterling’s impact, or lack thereof.

“What’s he done? He’s done zero!” Nicol exclaimed. “At the very least, come on and give Martinelli and Saka a break. Push the rest of the players to be better.” He went on to critique Sterling’s inability to fulfill the reasons behind his signing. “Use your experience, push the others to improve, and make it count when you get a chance. He’s done nothing! Call me crazy, but if you sign someone and they do nothing, that is not good.”

Arsenal’s attacking struggles have been apparent this season. While Liverpool and Manchester City boast formidable firepower, Arsenal has lacked the same clinical edge in front of goal. Martinelli and Saka, though influential, are not prolific scorers. Kai Havertz, a summer signing, has also offered limited returns, and Leandro Trossard has failed to replicate last season’s form. Arsenal’s reliance on these players has highlighted Sterling’s failure to step up and deliver.

Currently, nine points behind Liverpool after 11 matches, Arsenal sits under mounting pressure to close the gap in the title race. The Gunners face Nottingham Forest this weekend, while Liverpool visits Southampton, and the outcomes could prove pivotal in shaping the standings. For Arteta, Sterling’s poor form adds another layer of frustration as Arsenal looks to keep pace with the league’s elite.

Liverpool.com reflected on the situation, noting Sterling’s struggles were not entirely unexpected. “He hasn’t played for a while now,” the publication stated. “Arsenal is lagging behind in the standings, and even though there is plenty of time for that to change, its lack of attacking firepower is noticeable compared to Liverpool and Manchester City.” With fine margins at the top, Arsenal’s inability to maximize its attacking depth could prove costly in the long run.

The question now is whether Sterling can turn his fortunes around and salvage his loan spell. Time is running out for the England international to make his mark and prove Nicol wrong. For Arsenal, the challenge is clear: unlock the potential in their squad or risk falling further behind in the race for Premier League glory.