Arsenal are facing a significant injury blow with Mikel Merino set for a ‘sustained spell’ on the sidelines as per BBC.
The 29-year-old Spain international was a notable absentee from the Gunners’ dominant 4-0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, with fears now mounting that a serious foot injury could derail his impressive season.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that the former Real Sociedad star is set to consult specialists after complaining of persistent pain.
Mikel Merino has been a key player for Arsenal
Since his arrival in August 2024, Merino has become an key player for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Merino has already netted six goals and assisted another three across all competitions, providing a unique goal-scoring threat that has often bailed Arsenal out in tight fixtures.
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 21 | 4 | 3 |
| UEFA Champions League | 7 | 2 | 0 |
| EFL Cup | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| FA Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 33 | 6 | 3 |
Mikel Merino 25/26 stats across all competitions via Transfermarkt
His tactical versatility has also been vital. Whether shielding the back four alongside Declan Rice or acting as an “emergency striker” during late-game surges, Merino’s presence has allowed Arteta to rotate his squad effectively.
With a gruelling February schedule, including a Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea and the return of Champions League football, his absence will leave a massive void in Arteta’s team.
Arsenal’s league title to lose?
Despite the injury blow, Arsenal currently sit in a commanding position.
The victory at Elland Road moved the Gunners seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table, with 53 points from 24 matches.
After finishing as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, the north London side are finally being viewed as the team to beat.
However, the timing of Merino’s injury, coupled with a late scare for Bukayo Saka during the Leeds warm-up, has reignited fears about the squad’s depth.
Arsenal are considered favourites to win the title this year, however, with recent history not on their side, any setback could impact the team morale.
Arteta will hope that his side can navigate through this period without any more setbacks and maintain the lead on the top.
quick recovery melino
Instead of reporting as a neutral, you’re actively trying to stir conflict by using sensationalist terms.
There’s no way you truly believe that Mikel Merino’s injury details Arsenal’s season. Especially when you add the fact that Havertz, who just returns performs basically the same role and has already added goal contributions.
oh my God . Negatives again . Last week he was a fringe player and Eze and Madueke and Goykeres were disappointments . Now he is a vital player and out for a long period even though we don’t know what’s wrong . There is far too much negativity in Arsenal reporting .After today we are well clear in league and going for quadruple. I even read that Arteta was in danger of sack because of recent results . The best manager we’ve had for years . Please stop these stupid headlines