Mikel Artera is in doubts about the availability of Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino. Arsenal fans does not know whether they will be able to see the Spaniard on the field this season. But there is another big question. FIFA World Cup is coming and there has been no news about his ability to serve his nation.
What is the current situation of Mikel Merino at Arsenal?
The last match he played for the Gunners was back at the end of January against Manchester United. Although Mikel scored in that match, the final score was a 3-2 loss for the London side. Four days later, Arsenal played against Kairat Almaty in Champions League. The Spanish midfielder was suspended for that game due to accumulation of yellow cards.
In the last day of January, Arsenal had to play against Leeds United in the Premier League. Mikel Merino’s name was not mentioned in the travelling squad to Leeds. Later it was officially communicated that Merino had suffered a rare injury to his foot. Due to injury, his foot was required to be operated. It was not said that he was out for the rest of 2025-26 season. At the same time, the club had no news about his potential return.
Manager Mikel Arteta had clarified that the team doctors were unable to set a accurate return date for Mikel Merino. He mentioned that the doctors were satisfied with his foot surgery. Arteta gave a reason that as it was about bone healing, it would be a long term process.
The duration could be long like three, four or five months. But the team is not in a hurry to get him back into the squad. They will follow the possible timings recommended by the medical staffs.
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta update sparks Cesc Fabregas call
Key Statistic:
Mikel Merino has scored 11 goals and provided 5 assists in 49 matches in the Premier League for Arsenal, as per Statmuse.
What will Spain do if Mikel Merino is absent for the World Cup?
FIFA World Cup will start on 11th June. We are in April now and March is over. Still, there is no confirmed date of return for Mikel Merino. If he manages to be fit before the world cup, there will be questions about his match sharpness and intensity. His last match was in January, so he will not be in competitive matches for 6 months. A player absent from professional football for half a year will most likely be excluded from the world cup squad.
According to reports, Merino has been placed in the list of major doubts of Luis De La Feunte’s side. The report says that the Spanish manager thinks the physical condition of his two key midfielders is dubious. One of the key players in his national team setup is Mikel Merino.
The reality is harsh but time does not wait for anyone. If he is unable to gain his fitness before the World Cup, De La Feunte will consider other football players in that position. Barcelona‘s Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo will be his primary choices. These two does not play often in their national colours.
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Can we really see Merino on the pitch again this season?
According to multiple reports and opinions, his return in May is next to impossible currently. But it becomes the most optimistic option, Arsenal and Spanish fans can think about. The month of June seems more realistic for his comeback.
Merino’s father has explained why this injury has been termed as “rare”. He told that his injury is a “stress-fracture” and not a regular foot injury. His inside of the foot is affected rather than his finger. Luis De La Feunte had expressed his optimism about Merino’s return but was not sure about the timeframe, after his surgery.
It is most likely that he will not feature in an Arsenal jersey this season. If miracle happens, he can be available for final match days of the Premier League season. But it will be too soon to rule him out for the World Cup in June and July.
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Subhabrata Pal
Subhabrata Pal is a junior football writer who has contributed articles covering key developments in football. His work focuses on match events, player performances, and the narratives that shape discussions among fans and the wider football community. Through his contributions to Football Express, Subhabrata produced football coverage aimed at keeping readers informed about important moments, tactical trends, and evolving storylines. His writing blends clear reporting with analytical insights to deliver engaging and informative content for football enthusiasts.
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