When it comes to Arsenal's striking options, the absence of Viktor Gyokeres might seem like a crisis waiting to happen. But here's the twist: Mikel Merino, a midfielder by trade, has seamlessly stepped into the breach, proving that sometimes the best solutions come from unexpected places. Over the past nine months, Arsenal fans have grown accustomed to the sight of Merino celebrating goals—not from the midfield, but as a makeshift frontman. And he did it again on Tuesday, bagging a brace in Arsenal's commanding 3-0 Champions League victory over Slavia Prague.
The 29-year-old's performance was particularly crucial as he filled in for Gyokeres, whose muscle injury has left manager Mikel Arteta understandably concerned. Yet, Merino's ability to rise to the occasion has been nothing short of remarkable. With this win, Arsenal extended their winning streak to 10 matches across all competitions, showcasing the depth and resilience of their squad.
And this is the part most people miss: Merino's success as a striker isn't just about his goals; it's about his mindset, leadership, and adaptability. Arteta himself praised Merino, saying, 'It's a joy to have him. His mindset, his leadership, and the way he is as a person—it’s invaluable.' With key attackers like Havertz, Gyokeres, and Jesus sidelined, Merino has become a linchpin, offering solutions when Arsenal needed them most.
This isn't the first time Merino has played the hero. In February, he scored twice in a Premier League win against Leicester, stepping up after injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Since then, he’s netted crucial goals against Chelsea, Fulham, and even Real Madrid, ending the last campaign with nine goals across all competitions. This season, he’s already on the scoresheet three times, including a vital strike at Newcastle that helped Arsenal equal a club record of eight consecutive clean sheets, a feat not seen since 1903.
Arsenal’s £64m summer signing of Gyokeres was meant to solidify their attack and lead them to their first trophy since 2020. The Swede has delivered with six goals in 14 appearances, but his injury has thrust Merino into the spotlight once again. With Gyokeres potentially facing a prolonged absence, Merino’s role as the go-to frontman is more critical than ever.
In Prague, Merino’s impact was undeniable. After Bukayo Saka’s penalty opened the scoring, Merino doubled Arsenal’s lead with a neat finish from a Leandro Trossard cross, before heading home Declan Rice’s delivery to seal the win. His ability to adapt to the role—despite not being a natural number nine—has earned him the respect of both Arteta and his teammates. 'He has really good timing and the capacity to finish in the box,' Arteta noted, emphasizing Merino’s willingness to learn and improve.
But here's where it gets controversial: While Merino’s performances have been stellar, they also highlight Arsenal’s vulnerability in attack. With Havertz, Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke, and Martin Odegaard all injured, Arteta has had to get creative. 'You have to invent options,' he admitted. This raises questions: Is Arsenal’s squad depth truly sufficient for a four-competition challenge? Or are they one injury away from a crisis?
Merino, for his part, remains humble. Fresh off winning Euro 2024 with Spain—where he scored a late winner against Germany in the quarterfinals—he’s focused on contributing to the team. 'I’m just trying to feel the role of the number nine, even though I’m not a classic number nine,' he said. 'My goal is to help the team with goals.'
As Arsenal continues to dominate the Premier League and advance in the Carabao Cup, Merino’s versatility has become a cornerstone of their success. But as injuries pile up, one can’t help but wonder: How long can this makeshift solution last? And what does it say about Arsenal’s long-term strategy?
What do you think? Is Merino’s role sustainable, or is Arsenal walking a tightrope with their attacking options? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
