Raheem Sterling told his true Arsenal fate as Liverpool icon twists the knife

Mark Lawrenson has issued a stark warning to Raheem Sterling, suggesting the England international may struggle to secure a starting spot at Arsenal this season. Despite Sterling's shock last-minute move to The Emirates on transfer deadline day, having been edged out by Chelsea's new boss Enzo Maresca, Lawrenson has his doubts about the winger's chances of regular first-team football.

The 82-cap England veteran faces stiff competition from young talents such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard. Although Sterling has made appearances against both Tottenham and Atalanta since his transfer, Lawrenson remains sceptical about his chances under Mikel Arteta.

In a discussion with Paddy Power, the renowned pundit and former Match of the Day analyst commented: "At Arsenal, I think Raheem Sterling will solely be used for squad depth, I don't see him breaking into the starting team. I'd imagine that the manager will have already told him that he'll be a 25-minute man each week and that will be it, unless he does well when he gets a chance."

Lawrenson also expressed admiration for Arsenal's recent performances, highlighting this weekend's clash with Manchester City as pivotal, saying: "I've been quite impressed with Arsenal in recent years and they know that the game against Manchester City this weekend is a massive game for them and I have a feeling that they will go to the Etihad and take home all three points."

Arsenal's race for their first league title in over two decades could be galvanised by the signing of a player like Sterling, who has been praised for his winner's mentality and experience. The side narrowly missed out on besting Manchester City for the Premier League last season, and with Sterling's four champion titles from his tenure at the Etihad under his belt, many are keen to see him boost Arsenal's prospects.

During his City days, Arteta, who was then on the coaching staff, saw firsthand the qualities that Sterling can bring to a team. Despite any skepticism from the football community about the wisdom of Sterling's signing, Arteta's conviction never wavered.

As Arteta himself said, "After 10 seconds I knew we had to bring him (to Arsenal) because he really wanted it, and that was my only question mark, what stage is he at in his career? But after 10 seconds I knew."

Arteta further gushed about Sterling's positive attitude since joining Arsenal, noting, "He looks great. He has got a big smile on his face, a lot of energy and he wants to prove a point. When someone has got that in their belly you sense it straight away. I don't need to discuss his quality and what he can bring to the team."