Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is thinking about bringing in new players after midfielder Mikel Merino injury update. Merino has a rare break in his right foot and needs surgery. This could keep him out for the rest of the season.
The Injury That Shook Arsenal
Arteta spoke about this on deadline day of the January transfer window. He said the club is looking hard for options to fill the gap. This news has fans worried but also excited about possible new faces. In this article, we explain it all in easy words.
Mikel Merino, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in 2024, hurt his foot in a game against Manchester United. It’s a rare fracture, and he will have surgery soon. Arteta called it a big blow. “It is a very rare injury so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery, how it reacts,” he said. Merino has been key this season, scoring six goals. He might not play again until May or even the end of the season. This is bad timing for Arsenal, who are chasing the Premier League title.
The injury happened recently, and tests update showed it is serious for Arsenal. Arteta wants Merino back fast but knows healing takes time. “I know Mikel is going to do absolutely everything he possibly can to come back as quick as possible,” Arteta added. Last season, injuries hurt Arsenal’s chances, so they don’t want that again.
🚨 𝗠𝗜𝗞𝗘𝗟 𝗠𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗢 𝗛𝗔𝗦 𝗦𝗨𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗔 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗢𝗨𝗦 𝗜𝗡𝗝𝗨𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗢 𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗧! 🤕
He will undergo surgery in the coming days and will be out for the rest of the season. 🏥
He could even miss the 2026 World Cup. 🏆
(Source: @marca) pic.twitter.com/y5RPmRcWY0
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 2, 2026
Arteta’s Response to the Crisis
With the transfer window closing soon, Arteta didn’t rule out a last-minute deal. He said Arsenal is “actively looking at options” and will keep doing that. “If we find a solution, we will try to do it. If we don’t, we will continue in the manner that we are now,” he explained. This shows he’s open to signing someone new to help the team.
Arteta spoke before a big cup game against Chelsea. He wants to make sure the squad is strong. “We explore every option,” he said when asked about possible signings. The deadline was just hours away, so any move would be quick.
Potential New Signings
The reports say Arsenal might look at players like Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who used to play for them and is now a free agent. He’s been training with the club, and Arteta didn’t say no to the idea. There’s also talk of Leon Goretzka from Bayern Munich, but a late enquiry might not lead to a deal.
Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a short-term fix. He knows the club well and could step in right away. But some say Arsenal might not sign anyone new. They have to weigh if a new player fits and is worth it.
🚨 Confirmed: Mikel Merino will have surgery on a bone injury in his foot in the coming days & will then begin his recovery & rehabilitation programme.
Merino is expected to be out for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season. pic.twitter.com/XlAG4ES3tB
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) February 1, 2026
Internal Options to Fill the Gap
If no new signing happens, Arsenal has players inside the club who can help. Young star Max Dowman is ready to step up, reports say. There’s also a £17m player who could replace Mikel Merino. Arteta might regret loaning Ethan Nwaneri to Marseille, but he thinks the team can cope.
The club is surveying options but more likely to stick with what they have. This shows trust in the current squad and young talents.
Impact on Arsenal’s Season
This injury tests Arsenal’s depth. They lead the league and are in cups, so they need everyone fit. Arteta wants to do “everything we possibly can” to stay strong. Fans hope for a quick fix, either new or from within.
As the window closes, eyes are on Arsenal. Will they sign someone, or rely on their stars? Time will tell, but Arteta is focused on winning.
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