In a dramatic late transfer deadline day move, Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling has joined Premier League rivals Arsenal on a season-long loan. The 29-year-old England international has agreed to the move after being informed that he was not part of new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca’s plans.

Reflecting on the move, Sterling expressed his excitement, saying, “It’s an unbelievable feeling. It’s really exciting. We kind of left it late, but this was the move I was hoping for. Looking at everything, I’m just, like, ‘This is a perfect fit for me,’ and I’m super happy that we got it over the line.”

Sterling’s transfer to Arsenal might prove to be a masterstroke by Mikel Arteta. Since joining Chelsea from Manchester City for £50 million in July 2022, Sterling has made 81 appearances and scored 19 goals. He was one of the first major signings under Chelsea’s co-controlling owners, Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.

However, despite making 43 appearances last season, Sterling found himself sidelined under Maresca’s management, especially after Chelsea’s extensive spending spree of over £200 million on 11 new signings this summer. The writing was on the wall when Sterling was left out of Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City, prompting his representatives to seek clarity on his future.

While Sterling was linked with a potential move to Manchester United, the opportunity to reunite with Arteta at Arsenal emerged late in the transfer window. Arteta, who was a coach at Manchester City during Sterling’s time there, will be looking to tap into the forward’s vast experience and proven track record.

Sterling also expressed his admiration for the Arsenal project, saying, “I spoke with [sporting director] Edu, and I said you can see the real togetherness from Mikel’s time here and the journey the boys are on. You can see the hunger, and I’m really looking forward to being a part of that togetherness.”

Capped 82 times by England, Sterling was a key player during the national team’s run to the Euro 2020 final. However, he has not featured for his country since December 2022, making this move to Arsenal a crucial step in revitalizing his club and international career.