Raheem Sterling is missing from Arsenal's iconic shirt as unexpected new squad number is revealed

Raheem Sterling has chosen a new shirt number in his trophy-laden career, becoming Arsenal's new No.30.

The striker joined the Gunners on the final match day, moving from Chelsea on loan for one season.

There was much speculation about whether Sterling would become the Gunners' new number 10, given that the shirt had just become vacant. Emile Smith Rowewho left to join Fulham.

However, the 29-year-old is wearing number 30, having worn number 31 at the start of his career with Liverpool.

Sterling left the Reds in 2015 and became Manchester City's No.7, winning trophy after trophy alongside assistant manager-turned-superman… Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

The 82-cap England international then joined Chelsea in 2022 as their No. 17, then No. 7, before being left out of their bulging squad for the start of the 2024/25 campaign.

Leaving the number 10 uncovered means Sterling is not following in the footsteps of the legends who wear the shirt in north London such as Dennis Bergkamp, Pablo Merson as well as more recent stars Mesut Ozil and Jack Wilshere.

Speaking about his move after a deadline day in which it seemed more likely that he would join Manchester Unitedsaid Sterling Arsenal.com:“I'm excited. It's a topic we left for the last minute, but I was expecting it.

“When I saw everything, I thought, 'this is perfect for me,' and I'm very happy to have achieved it.

“For me it’s perfect to be in a football club like this, where you can see that hunger, that desire, year after year, they push and push and push. That’s exactly how I am as a person.

“Every year I want to improve and do better than the year before. I hope to fit in well with the boys and start playing.”

“Now it’s time to meet the guys, settle in and hopefully get some playing time and make my mark.”