Mikel Merino has made an unfortunate start to life as an Arsenal player.
Mikel Arteta provided a news update to the press about his Arsenal squad today.
Whilst Transfer Deadline Day goings-on are currently dominating the headlines, Arteta will be largely focused on preparing for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brighton.
However, the Spanish coach has now confirmed that the Gunners will be without two players for this fixture.
Gabriel Jesus has been ruled out of the Brighton game with injury, whilst new signing Mikel Merino was also hurt in his first Arsenal training session.
The midfielder damaged his shoulder in a collision and is set to be sidelined for a number of weeks.
Arsenal fans react to Mikel Merino injury news
Arsenal supporters on X were distraught to learn of Merino’s injury, which has become before they have had a chance to see him in action for the North London club.
One said: “Merino is injured? He barely missed a game in Spain, what are we doing in training.”
Another stated: “It’s a shame Mikel has had an injury at the start of his time at Arsenal but I’m sure he will be back and better than ever.”
One fan claimed: “Genuinely might be the worst luck. Timber last year, Merino this year.”
Another added: “I can’t lie, this injury to Merino is disastrous news. Coupled with the fact we’ve not brought in a forward, feels like the wind has been taken out of the sails. We are so close & we have the money. Pretty upsetting. Really hope that Merino’s injury is not as bad as it sounds.”
How Arsenal will cope without Merino vs Brighton
Merino may well have made his Arsenal debut against the Seagulls, but his maiden outing for the Gunners will now of course have to wait.
The Gunners have been here before. Having signed for Arsenal last summer, Jurrien Timber suffered an ACL injury in the first Premier League game of the season, which decimated his campaign.
Fortunately, Merino does not face such a long spell on the treatment table. However, Arteta will have to make use with Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Martin Odegaard all working together in combination in the middle of the park until Merino is back in action.
Partey will likely keep his starting place for tomorrow’s fixture.
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