Mikel Merino sends heartfelt message with Arsenal place under threat
Arsenal’s business so far in the summer transfer window could be a blow for Mikel Merino’s chances of more game-time next season.
Merino emerged as an unsung hero in his first season at Arsenal, being transformed from a bench-option midfielder to a makeshift number nine after season-ending injuries for Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.
Mikel Arteta made use of Merino’s six-foot-two frame to deploy him as a traditional centre-forward with the passing ability of an international central midfielder, and seven of his 17 league starts came up front.
Arsenal have already strengthened their midfield significantly this summer with the signings of Martin Zubimendi and most recently Christian Norgaard, providing fresh competition for Merino next season.
The 29-year-old’s chances of further game-time as a striker also look set to take a hit as Arsenal close in on a £63.5million deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres, as Arteta’s new-look starting XI continues to take shape.
Merino reflects on Spain success after Arsenal breakthrough
Merino’s arrival at the Emirates last season came off the back of his part in Spain‘s victory over England in the final of Euro 2024, which saw him come off the bench for Lamine Yamal in the final minute.
The then-Real Sociedad midfielder had previously scored an extra-time winner to beat Germany in the quarter-finals as Spain advanced at the hosts’ expense, and later made a £31.6m move to Arsenal.
Merino posted on his Instagram story (14 June) exactly 12 months on from La Roja’s win over England in the Euros final, sharing his initial post from Berlin’s Olympiastadion with the message of: “One year”.
Arsenal transfers to continue with Merino’s place under threat
Football Insider Verdict
Although the signings of Zubimendi and Norgaard will be seen as Arsenal fans as direct replacements for Jorginho and Thomas Partey, Merino’s prospects of increased game-time will still take a hit next season.
Gyokeres‘ impending arrival and the returns to fitness of Havertz and Jesus could put paid to any chance of Merino being used as a makeshift striker, while Arsenal have also expressed interest in Eberechi Eze.
Eze arriving would add further to the midfield and attacking stocks at the Emirates as Arteta goes hell for leather in a bid to finally deliver the Premier League title, and it remains to be seen where Merino fits into his Spanish compatriot’s plans next term.