Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes midfielder Mikel Merino has fully earned the right to be considered as a striker, even when the club’s first-choice forwards return to full fitness.
The Spanish international, who arrived from Real Sociedad in August 2024, had never been utilised as a No.9 before his move to London. However, he impressed in an advanced role last season, scoring nine goals while stepping in for the injured Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Now on 11 goals for club and country this season, Merino has played a key part in Arsenal’s rise to the top of the Premier League, prompting questions about his long-term role up front.
When asked whether Merino could remain an option at striker once the squad is fully available, Arteta was clear.
"I think he has earned at least the thinking behind it with the way he's performing and the impact he's bringing to the team, so that’s a ‘yes,’" he said.
Arteta added that another tactical possibility is to deploy Merino within a fluid attacking line, operating alongside Havertz, Viktor Gyökeres or Gabriel Jesus.
"There are things we prepared during the summer because of the squad we have, and so far we haven't been able to do," he added.
Arsenal are also monitoring the fitness of Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash with third-placed Aston Villa. Rice was forced off late against Brentford, while Trossard and Saliba have missed the last two fixtures.
"We have another training session this afternoon," Arteta said. "Every hour will be important to determine availability."
Reflecting on last season’s injury struggles, Arteta said the club is focused on learning and improving where possible.
"We have injuries that are totally uncontrollable, especially the long-term ones last season," he explained. "This season, other things have happened too. We must learn from what we can control and the areas we can improve."
