Mikel Arteta Acknowledges Raheem Sterling's Strong Desire To Contribute More At Arsenal

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Mikel Arteta has expressed the challenge of not being able to give Raheem Sterling more playing time at Arsenal. Sterling, who joined on loan from Chelsea during the summer transfer window, is eager to be on the field more often. Despite his enthusiasm, the 30-year-old has only started four matches for Arsenal and appeared in ten games across all competitions.

In total, Sterling has played 356 minutes, scoring once and assisting twice. Arteta, who previously worked with Sterling at Manchester City, is keen to offer him more opportunities. "It's been tough and very difficult for me as well to accept that I haven't given him more [minutes]," Arteta told reporters.

Sterling has been substituted in three of his four starts. This includes being taken off after 37 minutes during a Premier League loss to Bournemouth when William Saliba was sent off. Arteta explained that most substitutions are due to managing minutes or preventing injuries rather than tactical reasons.

Arteta believes Sterling can significantly influence the team positively. "I would like him to play much more as I think he can impact the team in a very good way," he said. Sterling is also valued for his presence in the dressing room and is eager to contribute more on the pitch.

The situation isn't new for Sterling, as he faced similar challenges at Chelsea. Arteta sympathises with players in such positions and hopes for a change soon. "He has had a very important role and suddenly you are in this position, not only here but when he was at Chelsea as well," Arteta noted.

Arteta's comments highlight his desire to integrate Sterling further into the team while balancing match fitness and injury prevention. The manager recognises Sterling's potential impact and aims to find ways to utilise his skills effectively within the squad.