Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has indicated that midfielder Mikel Merino has earned consideration for a striking role, even when the club’s traditional forwards are fully fit.
Merino, who joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad in August 2024, had never played as a number nine before arriving in London. However, he made a significant impact in his debut season, scoring nine goals while filling in for injured forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
This season, the 29-year-old has already netted 11 goals for club and country, helping Arsenal maintain their position at the top of the Premier League table.
“I think he has earned at least the thinking behind it with the way he’s performing and the impact that he’s bringing to the team, so that’s a ‘Yes’,” Arteta told reporters on Friday when asked about Merino’s potential role as a striker.
Arteta also suggested that Merino could be deployed as part of a forward line alongside Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, or Gabriel Jesus, depending on tactical requirements.
The manager noted that Arsenal are currently assessing the fitness of key players Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and William Saliba ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with third-placed Aston Villa. Rice was substituted in the latter stages of Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Brentford, while Trossard and Saliba have missed the past two fixtures.
“We have another training session in the afternoon. Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability of the players,” Arteta said.
Reflecting on last season’s challenges, Arteta acknowledged the lessons learned from injuries and squad management. “We have injuries that are totally uncontrollable, especially the ones that were long-term last season. This season, a lot of other things happened as well. Learn from the things that we can control as well and the areas that we can improve,” he added.
Merino’s versatility and consistent form continue to provide Arteta with valuable options as Arsenal pursue another Premier League title challenge.
