One of Mikel Arteta's most questionable Arsenal transfers just hit free agency

Mikel Arteta is responsible for signing Raheem Sterling from Chelsea. However, the Chelsea higher-ups are responsible for sending him packing via a contract termination.

It's official, over the last few hours, Raheem Sterling hit free agency. The England international, who has played in some of the best teams in recent Premier League history, saw his contract terminated by Chelsea today.

Chelsea's official club statement read "Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player."

It was a contemplation that Chelsea had been pondering for a few days, but right before the January transfer window slammed shut, Raheem Sterling was allowed to find a new club.

Raheem Sterling left Arsenal just seven months ago, following a period on loan at the Emirates Stadium. The thought was there from Mikel Arteta, as he had previous experience with coaching Raheem Sterling at Man City, but the conviction was not.

Speaking on his time coaching Raheem Sterling, Mikel Arteta said "My time with Raheem was exceptional. We built a really strong relationship together. He was unbelievable at that time. He taught me a lot as well, about individuals, how the players think, how we support them. He is someone I have really strong feelings about"

Raheem Sterling enters free agency, and it surprises no Arsenal fan

Sterling has to go down as one of the most pointless Arsenal signings of all time. He was handed opportunities by Mikel Arteta, particularly in cup games or from the bench, but he wasted each of them. Despite being a free agent, Arsenal must not consider bringing him back.

There are no hard feelings. Sterling isn't exactly an Arsenal villain, but he's not regarded as a hero either. Besides, his gigantic wage bill at Chelsea (where he was the fifth highest paid player in the Premier League, no less) is something that should make Arsenal not even entertain the idea.

Going forward, Raheem Sterling will undoubtedly find somewhere. He's a Premier League icon, and he's a proven goal scorer in the English top flight. There is bound to be a club out there that would appreciate his skillset, but the big six is unlikely.

Well, Tottenham would take anyone at this point, but given his Arsenal and Chelsea past, it seems like a stretch to suggest a move to Hotspur Way. Besides, nobody deserves that.

Arsenal adequately replaced Raheem Sterling on the wings. Primarily a LW, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have entered good form this season. Also showcasing the ability on the right, Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke is an even stronger side.

Sterling didn't stand much of a chance last season, and he wouldn't have this season, either.