Raheem Sterling successfully completed a dramatic last-minute loan transfer to Arsenal after Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca informed him that he no longer had a future at Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old winger found a last-minute escape route with Arsenal, as part of a hectic transfer deadline day that also saw Jadon Sancho and Reiss Nelson make moves. Sancho secured a season-long loan from Manchester United to Chelsea, while Nelson finalized a late agreement with Fulham. These deals cleared the way for Sterling to leave Chelsea and join Arsenal on a season-long loan.
Sterling had been sidelined at Chelsea after being told he was not in Maresca’s plans for the season, leaving him facing the prospect of not playing at all. Although Manchester United and Aston Villa had shown interest, they couldn’t agree on terms, leaving Sterling’s future uncertain.
Sterling had previously developed a strong relationship with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during their time together at Manchester City. Despite this, a reunion at Arsenal seemed unlikely until Chelsea needed to make room for Sancho, and Nelson attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs.
When Ipswich expressed interest in Nelson, combined with Sancho’s move to Chelsea, it opened the door for Sterling to join Arsenal. This transfer represents a significant opportunity for Sterling, who has now played for Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. The Gunners had initially avoided pursuing Sterling until the chance arose late in the transfer window, thanks to the moves involving Sancho and Nelson.
