Arsenal are going through a vital harm blow with Mikel Merino set for a ‘sustained spell’ at the sidelines as according to BBC.
The 29-year-old Spain world was once a notable absentee from the Gunners’ dominant 4-0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, with fears now mounting {that a} critical foot harm may just derail his spectacular season.
Supervisor Mikel Arteta showed that the previous Actual Sociedad famous person is ready to seek the advice of consultants after complaining of power ache.
Mikel Merino has been a key participant for Arsenal(Picture by means of James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Pictures)
Since his arrival in August 2024, Merino has transform an key participant for Mikel Arteta’s facet.
Merino has already netted six targets and assisted any other 3 throughout all competitions, offering a novel goal-scoring danger that has regularly bailed Arsenal out in tight fixtures.
Festival
Apps
Targets
Assists
Premier League
21
4
3
UEFA Champions League
7
2
0
EFL Cup
4
0
0
FA Cup
1
0
0
Overall
33
6
3
Mikel Merino 25/26 stats throughout all competitions by way of Transfermarkt
His tactical versatility has additionally been essential. Whether or not shielding the again 4 along Declan Rice or appearing as an “emergency striker” throughout late-game surges, Merino’s presence has allowed Arteta to rotate his squad successfully.
With a grueling February agenda, together with a Carabao Cup semi-final 2d leg towards Chelsea and the go back of Champions League soccer, his absence will depart an enormous void in Arteta’s group.
Arsenal’s league identify to lose?
Regardless of the harm blow, Arsenal lately sit down in a commanding place.
The victory at Elland Street moved the Gunners seven issues transparent on the most sensible of the Premier League desk, with 53 issues from 24 suits.
After completing as runners-up for 3 consecutive seasons, the north London facet are in spite of everything being considered because the group to overcome.
On the other hand, the timing of Merino’s harm, coupled with a past due scare for Bukayo Saka throughout the Leeds warm-up, has reignited fears concerning the squad’s intensity.
Arsenal are regarded as favourites to win the identify this yr, alternatively, with fresh historical past no longer on their facet, any setback may just affect the group morale.
Arteta will hope that his facet can navigate thru this era with out any longer setbacks and deal with the lead at the most sensible.
