Martin Zvimendi was on target for Arsenal’s second consecutive league game, helping the team to a 3-0 win over Sunderland.
His goal came just before half-time, firing in from long range to put the Gunners ahead.
Martin Zvimendi congratulates Mikel Merino
Footage of fans circulating at the X’s shows that Zvimendi wasn’t just celebrating after his 25-yard screamer hit the back of the net.
Instead, he raced straight to the corner flag, reenacting the iconic celebration of teammate and good friend Mikel Merino, who was sidelined with a serious injury.
In this video shared by @afcnewsroom, Zubimendi performs Merino’s trademark corner flag spin, which has been synonymous with the midfielder since his days at Real Sociedad.
The two midfielders share a strong bond, having played together at San Sebastian before reuniting in North London.
Mikel Merino will miss this season and could miss the World Cup as well
The memorial comes at a heartbreaking time for Merino. The midfielder was ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season last week.
The diagnosis was a blow not only to Arsenal but also to Merino’s international dreams.
With the 2026 World Cup in North America just months away, there are growing concerns that the 29-year-old will not recover in time to play for Spain.
Arsenal lead by 9 points
Goals from Zvimendi and Victor Gokeres gave Arsenal a comfortable 3-0 victory over Sunderland.
This win puts them nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table, putting them in a very comfortable position.
Manchester City are playing catch-up at this stage and will face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
Liverpool have not been at their best this season, but they remain a difficult task for Josep Guardiola.
Dropping any more points would put Arsenal in a very sweet spot towards the end of the season.
