Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, has hinted at a potential change in his team lineup. With loan signing Raheem Sterling pushing for more involvement and Gabriel Martinelli's form wavering, there could be a significant shift on the horizon.
Arteta has been vocal about the qualities and hunger of Raheem Sterling. Despite not initially being on Arsenal's radar, Sterling was signed late on deadline day from Chelsea for the season. This move is seen as an opportunity for him to rediscover his best form under Arteta who previously worked with him at Manchester City during what many consider to be the peak of his career.
If Sterling does break into the starting XI, it will likely result in Gabriel Martinelli stepping down. Bukayo Saka is expected to remain a certain starter on the opposite flank.
The concern over Martinelli’s form
Martinelli’s performance has been less than stellar recently which raises concerns over his place in the starting lineup. Last season he failed to hit double figures after a career-best showing in 2022/23 and this term he is yet to score.
Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, said:
"We need wingers with ability to go one vs one, to attack the spaces, to have the work rate, to increase the goal threat from every position and we have players who can play in various positions in the front line, especially because we have some injuries there. In the past we have to be protected and all the players we have here have these qualities."
The likes of Leandro Trossard have emerged as key figures for Arsenal and have become increasingly influential which further puts pressure on Martinelli.
The depth of options for Arteta
With these developments, it seems that Arteta now has more depth and credible alternatives within his squad. He expressed confidence in Sterling when he first considered bringing him onboard stating that despite struggling with form while at Chelsea, he believed that Sterling could make valuable contributions to Arsenal.
Sterling was left out of Chelsea matchday squad for their Premier League opener under Enzo Maresca where it became clear that he had no future there. Now aged 29, he is pushing hard for a starting berth in north London and has already made appearances off the bench. The future of Arsenal's lineup remains uncertain. With Martinelli's form dipping and Sterling pushing for more involvement, it seems that Arteta is considering a reshuffle. However, no official decisions have been announced yet.
Mikel Arteta's plans for Arsenal are still unfolding. With the potential introduction of Raheem Sterling into the starting XI and Gabriel Martinelli possibly stepping down due to his wavering form, there could be significant changes ahead for the Gunners.
