Raheem Sterling posts instant reaction after Arsenal shock Real Madrid
Raheem Sterling posted his instant reaction to Arsenal’s stunning 3-0 victory over Real Madrid on social media.
Sterling was suspended for the match against Real Madrid, having picked up a yellow card late in the previous game against PSV Eindhoven.
The English winger was just one of six first-team players unavailable for selection against Los Blancos, including Gabriel Magalhaes who suffered a season-ending hamstring injury against Fulham on 1 April.
However, none of that mattered, as Declan Rice struck two world-class free kicks past Thibaut Courtois, before Mikel Merino added a third to give the Gunners a commanding lead heading into the second-leg in Spain’s capital.
Raheem Sterling applauds Arsenal performance vs Real Madrid
Watching on from the stands, Sterling was quick to post his reaction to his Instagram story, using Arsenal’s official post of Rice and adding a clapping hand emoji and a love heart.
Whilst the winger has struggled for form during his loan spell at Arsenal, he would no doubt have been delighted to see his teammates dismantle their fabled opponents.
Raheem Sterling experience key to Arsenal Champions League run
Football Insider Verdict
Whilst his impact on the pitch has been disappointing, Sterling’s impact on the Arsenal squad has been an underrated factor in a difficult season.
Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri have both benefitted greatly from the England international’s presence.
What’s more, Sterling, unlike most of the current Arsenal crop, has won titles. That isn’t a dig at the Gunners, but more so an important aspect to note.
Making a deep run in a tournament like the Champions League is war of attrition, grinding out results in unfamiliar stadiums against unfamiliar opponents requires grit, and experience.
Sterling has been down this path enough times with Man City and England to know what it takes to keep spirits high, and whilst he may lack impact on the pitch, don’t doubt for one moment he won’t be viewed by Arteta as a key piece to any success Arsenal have from here on out.