Chelsea slammed for 'CRAZY' summer transfer decision

Cameron Smith

1 Sept 2024 15:00 BST
3 min read

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes Raheem Sterling will be an excellent signing for Arsenal.

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The 29-year-old joined Mikel Arteta’s side on loan from Chelsea on Transfer Deadline Day after being exiled by Enzo Maresca at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca told Sterling to find a new club before the summer transfer window closed and although Chelsea preferred a permanent exit, they agreed to loan him to Arsenal for the 2024-25 season.

Sterling is expected to provide competition for Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard at the Emirates Stadium, and he could make his Gunners debut in the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after the September international break.

Following news of Sterling’s loan move to Arsenal, Ferdinand was eager to heap praise on the transfer.

DEADLINE DAY: Every confirmed transfer around Europe

What has Rio Ferdinand said?

The ex-Man Utd defender told his YouTube channel: “What a mad circus act this was. But I’m just pleased and happy that the situation got sorted out for Raheem Sterling and he got a move he wanted.

“The situation wasn’t handled properly – it could’ve been better from Chelsea. But I’m glad he’s gone now.

“It’s a great business by Arsenal. From their perspective, this is a ridiculous bit of business.

© IMAGO - Raheem Sterling has left Chelsea on loan

“You’re getting an experienced winger who has won four league titles, he knows how to get it done. He’s played for some of the biggest clubs this country has to offer.

“He knows the path to trophies and that is invaluable. How Chelsea have let that out the door I don’t know, it’s crazy,” Ferdinand continued.

“This is a marriage made in heaven for Arsenal. It’s a perfect fit for me. Raheem has something to prove, too.

“I think he will deliver there and I’ll say it again, I think Arsenal will win the league this year and this signing only reinforces that thought. I think he could be that important.”