Gary Neville discloses the transfer error that Arsenal intended to avoid in January.

Gary Neville discloses the transfer error that Arsenal intended to avoid in January. Gary Neville, a former Manchester United defender,

has expressed scepticism regarding Arsenal’s complete support for Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign Raheem Sterling, implying that the club may have been hesitant to sanction the transfer.

Arteta is said to have advocated for Sterling’s introduction at the Emirates after the England international was overlooked by the new Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca. The winger considered Arsenal to be the “perfect fit” for a fresh start after the former Leicester City manager made it clear that Sterling was not a part of his plans.

Sterling has however been unable to make a significant impression in North London, scoring only one goal in 21 appearances. Neville is of the opinion that the Arsenal directors may have been hesitant about the signing, but ultimately agreed to Arteta’s request, recognising the four-time Premier League winner as a versatile attacking option.

Arsenal’s decision to forgo reinforcing their squad during the winter window appears to have been counterproductive. The Gunners have since fallen 13 points behind the league leaders, Liverpool, as their lack of attacking depth has become increasingly apparent. Arsenal’s most recent victory over Leicester City saw Raheem Sterling earn the starting position.

However, he has since been relegated to the bench for their most recent two matches, which resulted in a 1-0 loss to West Ham and a goalless stalemate with Nottingham Forest. Liverpool was able to increase their margin at the top of the table with a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United as a result of the dropped points.