By Martin Graham
Why his skill set fits Arteta’s system A returning squad but a genuine selection dilemma
When Mikel Merino arrived from Real Sociedad in August 2024, the idea of him leading Arsenal’s attack seemed far-fetched. The Spain international, then 28, had built his reputation as a midfielder with more than 200 La Liga matches and a European Championship triumph, not as a finisher.
His transformation began unexpectedly in February, when he stepped off the bench against Leicester and struck twice — the first occasion in his career he had played at the top end of the pitch. Since then, his influence in advanced areas has grown steadily.
Merino has now produced 16 goals across 63 Arsenal outings, with his recent contribution in the 1–1 draw with Chelsea reinforcing his growing status as a viable option up front. Injuries to Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Viktor Gyokeres opened the door, but his consistency has kept it open.
In his past five appearances through the center, he has provided three finishes and two assists, proving he can affect high-pressure contests. That return places him among Arsenal’s most dependable attacking outlets this year.
Why his skill set fits Arteta’s system
Arteta has already reimagined one midfielder as a striker. Havertz, initially viewed as a central player, became the preferred forward when available thanks to his awareness, physical strength, and instinct in key areas. Merino holds similar attributes, and his aerial threat is even more pronounced.
Despite questions over Havertz’s natural finishing, his movement made him effective. Gyokeres was brought in during July for £64m to give Arsenal a more orthodox scorer after producing a prolific spell in Portugal. His six goals in 15 games underline his ability, but he has still faced scrutiny over stylistic suitability.
During Gyokeres’ recent absence with a hamstring setback, Merino offered a contrasting presence. Towering and intelligent, he often drifts into pockets to create pathways for runners. The team’s 22 goals with him operating up front highlight how his positioning helps the collective.
Five of his eight league goals in 2025 have been headers — the most in the division this year along with Brentford’s Kevin Schade. Only James Scowcroft has a higher proportion of headed finishes among non-defenders with at least 10 top-flight goals.
A returning squad but a genuine selection dilemma
Gyokeres and Jesus are now back in contention, yet neither is guaranteed an immediate return to the starting XI. Gyokeres appeared from the bench at Chelsea after nearly a month out, and Arteta may need to build him up gradually as he regains sharpness.
In the meantime, Arsenal’s attack has flourished with Merino’s different interpretation of the role. The side has managed 13 goals in his past five outings in the position — 11 arriving from open play — easing concerns about an overreliance on set pieces earlier in the season.
His habit of dropping into midfield zones has benefited those around him. Leandro Trossard’s strike in the 4–1 derby win at Tottenham was a product of that movement, and Eberechi Eze has enjoyed a spirited run, highlighted by a hat-trick in the same fixture.
Merino’s reputation for tactical maturity has helped him adapt quickly, and he has become part of the dressing-room leadership. He attributes his progress to studying teammates and other forwards, seeking advice on movement and positioning. His header at Stamford Bridge was his 20th goal of 2025 for club and country, with Arteta praising his sense for danger.
With Brentford visiting Emirates Stadium on Wednesday and a hectic festive stretch ahead, the question now is whether Merino’s role is shifting from stopgap to long-term option.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
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