According to the BBC, Arsenal are facing a serious injury with Mikel Merino set to be out for an “extended period”.
The 29-year-old Spain international was absent from the Gunners’ 4-0 thrashing of Leeds United on Saturday, raising fears that a serious foot injury could ruin his excellent season.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the former Real Sociedad star will be seen by a specialist after complaining of persistent pain.
Mikel Merino is a key player for Arsenal
Since joining in August 2024, Merino has become a key player in Mikel Arteta’s side.
Merino has already scored six goals and assisted a further three in all competitions, providing a unique scoring threat and often saving Arsenal in close games.
| competition | app | the goal | assist |
|---|---|---|---|
| premier league | twenty one | 4 | 3 |
| UEFA Champions League | 7 | 2 | 0 |
| EFL Cup | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| FA Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| total | 33 | 6 | 3 |
Mikel Merino’s 25/26 match stats in all competitions (via Transfermarkt)
His tactical versatility is also important. Merino’s presence has allowed Arteta to effectively rotate his squad, whether defending the back four alongside Declan Rice or acting as an “emergency striker” during late-game surges.
His absence will leave a big hole in Arteta’s team as they have a tough schedule ahead of them in February, including the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea and the resumption of Champions League football.
Will Arsenal lose the league title?
Despite being hit by injuries, Arsenal are currently top of the table.
Victory at Elland Road took the Gunners to 53 points from 24 games, putting them seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
After finishing runners-up for three seasons in a row, the North London side are finally seen as the team to beat.
However, the timing of Merino’s injury, combined with Bukayo Saka’s late scare during Leeds’ warm-up, has reignited concerns about the squad’s depth.
Arsenal are seen as favorites to win this year’s title, but with recent results not on their side, a setback could affect the team’s morale.
Arteta is hoping his side can get through this period without falling further back and maintain their lead at the top of the table.
