Mikel Merino shares update on his ‘frustrating’ injury and reveals his next steps

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Mikel Merino has endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines since suffering a foot injury in January.

The Spaniard has not featured since then, and his absence has been a blow for Arsenal during a crucial part of the season.

At the time, there were serious concerns because of how rare an injury it was. Some reports from Spain even suggested that Merino could miss the upcoming World Cup, which raised alarm bells.

However, more recent updates have been positive, and now the midfielder has shared his own thoughts on his recovery.

Mikel Merino shares update on his injury recovery at Arsenal

Mikel Merino has confirmed that his recovery is progressing well, even if it has been slower than he would like.

The midfielder admitted that it has been frustrating for him personally, especially given his desire to help the team on the pitch.

However, the Arsenal star also made it clear that the nature of the injury means it cannot be rushed – it is something that requires patience and careful progression through each stage of recovery.

Merino revealed that he is currently taking small steps and gradually building towards more intensive work. He also outlined what the next milestone in his recovery process will be.

He said on the Arsenal Vision Podcast: “It’s going great. Slowly, which is frustrating for a guy like me who wants to help my team every time.

“But it’s going great. It’s one of those injuries that are very special that you have to take care of them. I have to do the little steps first. If everything goes the right way, I’ll start jumping.

“Very, very happy with how the injury is going. Hopefully, soon, I’ll be progressing even more.”

Arsenal need to be careful with Mikel Merino

There will naturally be a temptation for Arsenal to bring Merino back as quickly as possible.

The season is reaching its decisive stage in both the Premier League and the Champions League, and the Spaniard could make a difference.

Ian Wright recently hinted that Merino is closing in on a return, and the midfielder’s own comments support that view.

However, the lack of a clear timeline is telling when you consider the fact that he has not even started jumping yet. That suggests he is still some way off full fitness.

Rushing him back too soon could risk a setback, which would be far more damaging in the long run.

That is why Mikel Arteta must prioritise his long-term health and allow him to recover at his own pace, even if that means missing the rest of the season.