Mikel Arteta 'believed in romantic potential' of Raheem Sterling reunion at Arsenal after time together at Man City as Chelsea outcast searched for 'stability'

Per The Athletic, Arsenal boss Arteta believed there was a romantic potential to reuniting with Sterling, having coached the former England winger during his time at Manchester City. However, he has struggled for minutes, and has made just 10 starts in all competitions.

Sterling was searching for stability after also struggling for minutes at Chelsea. However, as the Gunners did not include a purchase option in the deal to sign the forward, Arteta has not been motivated to prioritise his playing time over the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal signed Sterling mainly due to the fact that he was a low-cost option, as there was no transfer fee, nor a loan fee, and the Gunners only had to pay a portion of his wages. Arteta personally pushed for the move, but he is not likely to remain in north London. Chelsea plan to move him on in the summer, although they accept his wages may prove prohibitive and whittle down the number of potential suitors who can sign him.

Arsenal play Chelsea this weekend as the Gunners look to stay in touch with runaway leaders Liverpool; the Reds are 15 points clear after Saturday's fixtures.