Aasif Rahman

Wed 2 April 2025 12:00, UK

Mikel Merino’s post on social media gained many reactions following his performance as Arsenal beat Fulham.

Arsenal returned from the international break with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium.

Merino found himself on the scoresheet after Ethan Nwaneri picked him out inside the box, with the Spaniard’s shot taking a deflection before nestling in the back of the net.

Bukayo Saka marked his return from a three-month hamstring injury with a goal, while Rodrigo Muniz grabbed a late consolation for Fulham in stoppage time.

Merino had a brilliant performance for Arsenal as a makeshift striker as the side deal with injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, and after the game, he shared a message with supporters.

Mikel Merino emerging as a ‘hidden gem’ as Arsenal’s striker

Merino shared a series of photos from Arsenal’s win on Instagram, captioning the post: “+3. +1” – a nod to both the three points and adding another goal to his tally.

The post drew reactions from several teammates, including William Saliba, Declan Rice, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Leandro Trossard.

Merino has been described as Arsenal’s “hidden gem” as he has stepped up impressively in an unfamiliar striker role amid the club’s injury crisis.

After struggling for game time following his £32 million move from Real Sociedad last summer, he has found new life further up the pitch. Since 15 February, he has started seven of Arsenal’s last eight games, contributing five goals and an assist.

Arsenal intensify striker search with interest in Viktor Gyokeres and Matheus Cunha

Despite Merino’s unexpected success as a makeshift forward, it’s evident that the Gunners are prioritising a new striker in the summer transfer window.

Arsenal fans are calling for the club to sign Viktor Gyokeres, with new sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly a big admirer of the Swedish forward.

Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed that Arsenal remain keen on Wolves star Matheus Cunha, having previously expressed interest in January.

The 25-year-old recently signed a new deal at Molineux in February but has already hinted at a summer exit, putting potential suitors on alert.

For now, Arteta will be hoping Merino continues his impressive form as Arsenal aim to finish a frustrating season on a high.