Gabriel Magalhaes reacts to Mikel Merino’s one-word Arsenal message
Mikel Merino had a short but direct message for the Arsenal faithful with plenty of reactions from teammates.
Merino was in action during the international break with Spain, playing a key role in their dramatic penalty shootout win over the Netherlands.
Merino linked up well with Arsenal-linked winger Nico Williams as he found the net in the first leg of the fixture. That connection has only fuelled speculation over a potential summer move.
Now back with the Gunners, he is set to play a crucial role in the closing months of the season. With Arsenal lacking a recognised striker, he has been deployed in an unfamiliar centre-forward role, adapting impressively despite the circumstances.
Still, he remained upbeat in his latest update to the supporters, showing no signs of letting the pressure get to him.
| Arsenal’s next three fixtures | Date |
| Arsenal vs Fulham | 1 April |
| Everton vs Arsenal | 5 April |
| Arsenal vs Real Madrid | 8 April |
Mikel Arteta backs Mikel Merino to lead Arsenal attack as Bukayo Saka returns
The midfielder shared multiple pictures from a training session, captioning them simply: “Back!” while tagging Arsenal and adding several emojis.
His post received plenty of attention from teammates, with William Saliba, David Raya, and Gabriel Magalhaes among those dropping likes.
Merino arrived at the Emirates last summer in a £32million deal but struggled to secure a regular starting role, making just 12 Premier League starts.
However, with Kai Havertz ruled out for the rest of the season, he has stepped up in an unfamiliar centre-forward role – scoring four goals as Arsenal’s makeshift number nine since February.
Merino’s impressive performances have led some to label him a “hidden gem” proving to be a valuable option in attack at a time when the Gunners have struggled for consistency up front.
Their attacking options are set for a major boost, though, as Bukayo Saka has returned to Arsenal training this week – a huge lift for Arteta’s side.
Arsenal looking to fend off Saudi interest in Gabriel Magalhaes
While Gabriel remains active on social media alongside Merino, he has been at the centre of speculation regarding his future.
Football Insider revealed that Arsenal are preparing to offer Gabriel a new contract as interest from Saudi Arabia continues to grow.
Al-Nassr are reportedly planning an ambitious summer move for Gabriel, who has previously seen Saudi interest blocked by Arsenal.
Despite the outside interest, Arteta will hope Gabriel remains fully focused, just as Merino appears to be, with Arsenal set to take on Fulham on 1 April.