In a significant blow to their Premier League title ambitions and UEFA Champions League aspirations, Arsenal have confirmed midfielder Mikel Merino will undergo surgery on a bone injury in his right foot and faces an extended absence, likely ruling him out for most of the season’s decisive run-in.
The injury, sustained late in Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat to Manchester United on January 25, has been confirmed as a bone injury following specialist reviews.
In a club statement, Arsenal confirmed the surgery would happen in the coming days and stated the aim is for Merino to return to full training before the season concludes, though he is expected to miss an “extended period”.
The loss of Merino, a versatile and impactful 29-year-old Spain international, presents a substantial challenge for manager Mikel Arteta. Though not always a guaranteed starter, Merino has been a crucial squad player, making 33 appearances across all competitions this season and contributing six goals and three assists.
His unique value stems from an exceptional combination of tenacious midfield play and a surprising knack for goal. Data analysis reveals that since joining from Real Sociedad in 2024, Merino has won an average of 8.5 duels per 90 minutes, ranking him second among Premier League midfielders, highlighting his combative edge.
Simultaneously, he has developed into a potent offensive weapon, with 39% of his league minutes for Arsenal coming as a makeshift centre-forward, where he has scored 11 goals. His average of 0.56 goal involvements per 90 minutes in the Premier League ranks behind only Bukayo Saka in the current squad.
Manager Mikel Arteta has previously lauded Merino’s adaptability and mentality, stating, “It’s a joy to have him. His versatility on the pitch, the things he can do – it’s his mindset, leadership and the way he is as a person”.
In a separate comment on Merino’s unexpected proficiency as a striker, Arteta noted, “a player that has that amount of curiosity, the way he loves his profession and football, it’s difficult to put limits to that”.
This sentiment was echoed by captain Martin Ødegaard, who played alongside Merino at Real Sociedad, praising his incredible work rate and duel-winning ability.
Facing a condensed schedule on multiple fronts, Arsenal’s management is now compelled to assess their options with the transfer deadline imminent.
According to reports, the club is surveying the market for potential short-term loan cover, though the complexity of finding a player who matches Merino’s distinctive profile in limited time makes a deal uncertain.
Potential internal solutions include the recently returned Kai Havertz, while the academy’s Myles Lewis-Skelly could see increased responsibility.
In a message to fans on Instagram, Merino struck a resilient tone, writing, “Time to stop now with a foot injury. Sometimes life throws this kind of challenge when it is less convenient. Just another opportunity to be strong, resilient and overcome it. We have the best medical team and together we will come back stronger”.
The injury also casts a shadow over Merino’s international prospects, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching this summer.
For Arsenal, the immediate focus shifts to crucial fixtures, including a Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea and maintaining their six-point lead at the top of the Premier League. How Arteta reconfigures his squad in Merino’s absence may prove pivotal in a season where the club is competing for honours on all fronts.