Liverpool legend Steve Nicol has launched a scathing attack on former Reds winger Raheem Sterling, calling him the worst signing in the Premier League this season. Sterling, who is currently on loan at Arsenal after a frustrating stint at Chelsea, has made little impact since joining Mikel Arteta’s side, sparking criticism from Nicol.
Sterling, 29, was deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea, where his performances failed to live up to expectations following his high-profile move from Manchester City. Arteta saw an opportunity to bring the forward to the Emirates on loan, hoping to add depth to his attacking options. However, Sterling’s time at Arsenal has been underwhelming, with the winger playing just 123 league minutes so far this season. His only goal contributions – one goal and one assist – came in the Carabao Cup, leaving many questioning his value to the Gunners.
“What’s he done? He’s done zero!” Nicol fumed in an interview with ESPN. “At the very least, come on and give [Gabriel] Martinelli and [Bukayo] Saka a break and push the rest of the players to be better.”
Nicol, known for his blunt opinions, continued to criticise Sterling’s lack of impact, stressing that the forward should be using his experience to challenge his teammates and make a difference when called upon. “All the reasons he was bought, use your experience, push the other two to be better, give them competition, and then when you do get a chance, make it count. He’s done nothing! Call me crazy, but if you sign someone and they do nothing, that is not good.”
Arsenal, currently sitting nine points behind Liverpool in the Premier League standings, had hoped that Sterling would provide valuable attacking options to complement Martinelli and Saka. However, the Gunners’ struggles in front of goal this season have highlighted their need for more prolific contributors. Despite the potential for improvement, the lack of attacking firepower is starting to show, especially when compared to Liverpool and Manchester City.
Sterling’s struggles at Arsenal have not been a huge surprise, given his lack of playing time and inconsistent performances in recent years. With only a few appearances in the league, Arsenal’s attacking issues are becoming more evident. While Saka and Martinelli are undoubtedly talented, neither is considered among the most prolific wingers in the league. Kai Havertz’s attacking contributions have also been limited, and Leandro Trossard has seen his form dip compared to last season.
Liverpool.com also pointed out that Arsenal’s attacking deficiencies could prove costly in their title chase, with their lack of clinical finishers becoming a growing concern. Despite plenty of time left in the season, Arteta’s side may struggle to close the gap on Liverpool and Manchester City if they fail to find more goals from their forward players.
As for Sterling, his time at Arsenal looks increasingly questionable. With the pressure mounting on the forward to deliver, it remains to be seen whether he can turn his fortunes around and justify the faith Arteta showed in him by bringing him to the Emirates on loan. Until then, Nicol’s harsh assessment of Sterling’s season seems to resonate with many Arsenal fans who were hoping for more from the England international.