Former Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling was arrested on Thursday morning following a single-vehicle crash on the M3 motorway, just hours before his former club Arsenal faced Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final. The 31-year-old was released on bail later that day.
Details of the Incident
Hampshire Police confirmed that Sterling crashed his Lamborghini into barriers on the southbound M3 near the Minley Interchange at approximately 9am. No other vehicles were involved, and no injuries were reported. Upon arrival, officers allegedly found the former England international in possession of Class C drugs, including tranquilisers such as Valium, steroids, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and GHB.
A police spokesperson stated: "Just before 9am on Thursday, we received reports that a Lamborghini was in collision with barriers on the M3 southbound, close to the Minley Interchange. No other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported. The driver, a 31-year-old man from Berkshire, has been arrested on suspicion of driving a vehicle whilst unfit, driving dangerously, possession of a Class C substance and failing to provide a specimen. He has been bailed while our enquiries continue."
Mixed Fan Reactions
The news sparked a wave of reactions on social media. Some fans expressed concern for Sterling's well-being. @SeanMafema commented: "This brother needs proper help before things get even worse from this worst situation. You can't be trying laughing gas if you can laugh properly and enjoy yourself."
Others defended the player, attributing the incident to online abuse. @Sofia_u7 wrote: "This is really disappointing. It shows that constant criticism and online abuse can affect footballers just as it would anyone else."
@jacobwylde12 added: "Let's not try and distract the fact this is one of the best Premier League players ever. Let's not forget the number of times he single-handedly dragged our country to the latter stages of a tournament. The press have always been out to get him, and it's disgusting."
Sterling's Career Decline
Sterling rose to prominence at Liverpool before becoming a key figure at Manchester City, where he won four Premier League titles. He joined Chelsea in 2022 but struggled to replicate his form. After two seasons, he was loaned to Arsenal, managing just one goal in 28 appearances. His Chelsea contract, worth £325,000 per week, was terminated in January despite having 18 months remaining.
In February, Sterling moved to Dutch side Feyenoord, making eight appearances. Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie commented on the cynicism surrounding Sterling: "Personally, I struggle with the cynicism surrounding him. I think respect is more appropriate. In any case, I don't like cynicism. I can't stand the whole atmosphere around him."
UCL Final Context
Sterling's arrest comes on the same day Arsenal faced PSG in the Champions League final. The timing adds to a difficult period for the winger, who has faced criticism and personal challenges in recent years. His former club Arsenal will be hoping to lift the trophy without their former star on the pitch.
