Mikel Arteta Provides Positive Injury Update on Arsenal’s Mikel Merino Ahead of Tottenham Clash
Mikel Arteta has provided an encouraging injury update on Arsenal’s summer signing, Mikel Merino, who suffered a fractured shoulder during his first training session with the club.
The Spanish midfielder, brought in from Real Sociedad, was initially identified as a key target for the Gunners, but his debut was delayed after the injury just before the match against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Merino’s recovery is expected to take around two months, but Arteta confirmed that the midfielder is progressing well. He mentioned that while the healing process is slow due to the nature of the bone injury, Merino has started doing some rehabilitation work.
Embed from Getty ImagesArteta emphasized that the club is using this downtime to ensure Merino fully understands Arsenal’s playing style and tactical demands, so that once he returns, he can quickly contribute to the team.
Regarding his return, Arteta said, “It is difficult to predict the exact timeline for the bone to heal, but Merino is showing no significant symptoms, which is a positive sign.” His availability for the North London Derby remains unlikely, but the club is hopeful for a faster recovery.
Meanwhile, Arsenal face a challenge with their midfield options for the upcoming derby against Tottenham.
Declan Rice is suspended following a red card against Brighton, and Martin Ødegaard is dealing with an injury sustained while on international duty.
This leaves Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and potentially Kai Havertz, who could be asked to drop back into midfield, as Arteta’s senior options for the crucial clash.
Mikel Arteta Provides Positive Injury Update on Arsenal’s Mikel Merino Ahead of Tottenham Clash
