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Former Arsenal captain William Gallas has questioned Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign Raheem Sterling and his subsequent handling of the player, claiming it proves the Spaniard is not a world-class manager. Gallas believes Arteta’s reluctance to give Sterling enough opportunities has damaged the winger’s confidence and limited his impact at the club.

Sterling joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea on the final day of the summer transfer window. However, despite injuries to key wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, the 30-year-old has struggled to secure regular playing time. Even when Arsenal needed a late goal against Manchester United, Arteta opted to bring on Kieran Tierney as a makeshift winger instead of Sterling.

Gallas criticized Arteta’s approach, stating that signing Sterling only to leave him on the bench was a poor decision. The former Arsenal defender believes that Arteta’s lack of trust in the England international has prevented him from regaining his form and confidence. “Why did you bring Sterling if you’re not going to play him?” Gallas questioned.

Sterling managed to deliver a reminder of his quality during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, providing two assists and earning the man-of-the-match award. However, Gallas feels that performance may have come too late to salvage his hopes of securing a permanent move to the Emirates.

In response to the criticism, Sterling admitted he hasn’t played as much as he would have liked but remains focused on contributing to the team’s success. “I believe I still have a big part to play, whether it’s 10 minutes, 45, or a full start,” Sterling said. “I just need to be ready and help the team as much as possible.”

Despite his limited role in the squad, Sterling is confident he can make an impact as Arsenal prepares for a Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid. He believes the team is still capable of pushing for success both domestically and in Europe.

Gallas, however, remains unconvinced by Arteta’s management style, arguing that the lack of rotation and reluctance to give players like Sterling opportunities is a sign that the Arsenal boss is not yet at the level of top-class managers. “You never gave him minutes on the wing. Instead, you kept him on the bench and now his confidence is gone,” Gallas added.

As Sterling fights for his place in the squad, his future remains uncertain. With two years left on his Chelsea contract, the winger’s performances in the final stages of the season could determine whether Arsenal will pursue a permanent deal or send him back to Stamford Bridge.