Arsenal is aiming to return to winning ways once the international break concludes, after a difficult period without a victory. They have gone four Premier League matches without a win and haven’t secured a victory this month, leaving them nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. This situation has made it even more pressing for the Gunners to get back on track.
ESPN pundit Steve Nicol has criticized one of Arsenal’s summer signings, Raheem Sterling, claiming that he has “done zero” since joining the club. Sterling made the move to Arsenal on loan from Chelsea just before the summer transfer window closed. Since then, he has featured in eight matches for the Gunners, with four starts, and has scored just once.
Nicol went as far as to label Sterling the worst signing of the season so far, a comment that surprised some of his ESPN colleagues. When asked about Sterling, Nicol bluntly questioned, “What has he done?” His co-host Dan Thomas responded, asking if Nicol had expected Sterling to make a significant impact given that he would only play in part-time roles. Nicol, however, insisted that Sterling had failed to make a difference in any capacity, stating that at least he should be pushing fellow players like Martinelli and Saka to perform better, and contributing when given the chance.
Nicol expressed disappointment, explaining that with Sterling’s experience and potential, Arsenal had hoped he would bring more to the team. He felt that Sterling’s lack of contribution—“absolutely zero”—was not acceptable for a player of his calibre.
Despite Nicol’s comments, some Arsenal teammates have backed Sterling. Mikel Arteta, the Gunners’ manager, recently praised him, calling Sterling “exceptional.” Oleksandr Zinchenko also spoke highly of Sterling, describing him as a player capable of making a significant impact when he finds his rhythm. Zinchenko emphasized Sterling’s ability to be “unstoppable” on his day, acknowledging the skills and desire he brings when fully engaged.
Arsenal’s next challenge is against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, 23rd November, at the Emirates Stadium, where they will be eager to bounce back and end their recent slump.