.
The Gunners are currently 15 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool – albeit with a game in hand – and their chances over overhauling Arne Slot’s team could be formally ended by the end of April.
That means Arsenal’s campaign now rests on the UEFA Champions League after being paired with defending champions Real Madrid in quarterfinals.
MORE: Saliba breaks silence on Real Madrid transfer rumors
A 9-3 aggregate win over PSV Eindhoven offered Arsenal fans a reminder of their capabilities after a streak of one win in four EPL games.
Sterling’s omission from league games has come into sharp focus in recent weeks with Arteta opting against utilising the Chelsea loanee despite his attacking injury crisis.
With Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli all ruled out in February – with Martinelli since returning – Arteta controversially moved Mikel Merino forward from midfield.
Sterling’s experience and nous in the final third appeared to make him the perfect candidate to guide Arsenal through a tricky period, but that was not in Arteta’s plans.
Since joining on a season-long loan from Enzo Maresca’s side, Sterling has started just four EPL games, and just two since the start of 2025.
Arteta handed the 30-year-old a rare start in the 2-2 second leg draw with PSV – and after laying on two assists – Sterling had a message for his manager.
“I’m still faithful that I have got a big part to play [this season],” as per quotes from BBC Sport.
“You can only control what you can control. I’ve not had as many minutes as I’d like, but I’ve had opportunities.
“It’s down to myself to keep knocking at the door. I believe in myself that I have a lot to play for here, whether it’s 10 minutes, 45 or a start.
“I know what I’m capable of. You just want to play. You’re at a top club with top players and you have to wait for your …
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