Arsenal have suffered a major setback after reports confirmed that midfielder Mikel Merino will be sidelined for several months due to a broken bone in his foot. The Spanish international picked up the injury recently and is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, dealing a blow to Mikel Arteta’s midfield plans for the remainder of the season.
According to reports from Marca, Arsenal’s medical staff are focused on helping Merino recover before the end of the campaign. However, his return timeframe remains uncertain, with the club expected to issue an official statement soon. The injury comes at a critical stage of the season as Arsenal continue to compete on multiple fronts, including the Premier League and European competitions.
Merino’s absence leaves Arteta short of options in central midfield, especially with the club already managing fitness concerns around key players. The 28-year-old had been expected to play an important role in Arsenal’s rotation and tactical setup, offering both defensive stability and attacking support.
With the transfer window nearing its final hours, Arsenal are now exploring the midfield market for potential reinforcements. The club could move quickly to secure a short-term solution or depth signing once Merino’s injury is officially confirmed.