Arteta's Arsenal Reunion: Can He Revive Raheem Sterling's Form?

Welcome to The Radar

In this weekly Sky Sports column authored by Nick Wright, we dive into essential stories shaping the Premier League landscape. From managerial tactics to player performance insights, stay tuned to what’s trending. This week’s spotlight is on:

• Arteta and Sterling's Reunion
• Underrated Wood's Incredible Numbers
• Ten Hag's Game Model Under Scrutiny

Arteta to Help Unlock Sterling?

In the Manchester City documentary "All or Nothing", a poignant moment captures the dynamics between Mikel Arteta and Raheem Sterling. Following a crucial miss against Burnley, Sterling expressed his regret: he hadn’t executed Arteta's strategy properly. Manager Pep Guardiola recounted Sterling's self-criticism, noting the missed opportunity impacted the team’s performance.

Despite this setback, Sterling concluded that season triumphantly, netting 18 goals, second only to Sergio Aguero. Arteta's coaching significantly influenced Sterling’s game, focusing on positional play and finishing skills that helped him almost double his goal-scoring rate.

Arteta recognized that the key to Sterling’s success wasn’t merely in improving specific techniques but rather in positioning him closer to the penalty box. This strategic shift resulted in a notable increase in his touches inside the opponent's area. His averages soared from 5.66 to 9.56 touches per 90 minutes during Arteta's tenure at City. However, since then, he has seen a decline at Chelsea, averaging only 7.23.

Nevertheless, as Sterling joins Arsenal, Arteta's proven ability to place forwards in scoring positions instills hope for a revival. Under Arteta, players like Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka thrived, consistently finding themselves in the danger zone. Sterling's potential to tap into the prolific crosses Arsenal is known for could reignite his career.

Underrated Wood Matching Salah Output

While all eyes are on Mohamed Salah, when Liverpool faces Nottingham Forest, Chris Wood has quietly matched his scoring effectiveness. As the Premier League goals charts indicate, Salah is slight ahead this season, but if penalties are excluded, the two strikers are tied. Wood's efficiency shines through as he has achieved this with fewer minutes on the pitch, delivering a highly impressive goal rate that puts him in elite company.

The 32-year-old forward has become an essential asset for Forest's survival chances in the league. His contributions have proven critical, keeping the team afloat during relegation tussles. Wood's recent history shows that he has consistently reached double figures since joining the Premier League, helping elevate his status among famed forwards.

Ten Hag Faces Test of Game Model at Saints

At Manchester United, Erik ten Hag is under pressure, especially following disappointing performances against Brighton and Liverpool. Reports suggest that there is an urgent need for him to exhibit domination in matches. With their upcoming clash against a winless Southampton team offering a chance for redemption, scrutiny remains over Ten Hag's tactical approach.

While Southampton, led by Russell Martin, has shown dominant possession statistics, it poses unique challenges for United, which has averaged just above 50%. The upcoming match is critical not only for standings but also for validating ten Hag's strategic aspirations in the eyes of club decision-makers.

What to Watch This Weekend

• Aston Villa vs. Everton - Kick-off at 5:30 PM
• Bournemouth vs. Chelsea - Kick-off at 8:00 PM
• North London Derby: Tottenham vs. Arsenal - Coverage starts at 1 PM, Kick-off at 2 PM
• Wolves vs. Newcastle - Kick-off at 4:30 PM

Don’t miss out on thrilling action this weekend on Sky Sports!