Raheem Sterling has broken a unique UEFA Champions League record following his off the bench cameo in Arsenal’s stalemate against Atalanta.
The Gunners’ lackluster away performance on Thursday night was a bit improved when the England international entered the game in the 73rd minute.
In the nerve-wracking Champions League opener in Italy, David Raya pulled off two flashes of brilliance, including an incredible double save to deny Mateo Retegui twice after a penalty was given.
And even though Mikel Arteta substituted Leandro Trossard, Jorginho, and Sterling onto the pitch, the Gunners were only able to earn a point.
When the final whistle blew, the winger did have something to celebrate, as Daily Mail reported that it turned out he had become the first player in history to play for four different English teams in the competition.
Sterling marked his Champions League debut in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ludogorets in September 2014, with Steven Gerrard’s late penalty sealing the victory for Liverpool.
After completing his transfer to Manchester City the following season, Sterling played in his team’s Champions League match, a painful 2-1 loss to Juventus at the Etihad.
During his time at Man City, the 29-year-old played in 339 games and scored 131 goals. He also made 68 appearances in the Champions League for the team.
In the game that ultimately led to Thomas Tuchel’s dismissal, the forward’s debut for Chelsea in Europe’s elite competition ended in a humiliating 1-0 loss against Dinamo Zagreb, where he was substituted after 75 minutes.
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