Arsenal have relied on Mikel Merino for goals since Kai Havertz suffered an injury, with the Spaniard stepping up to play as a false nine. He initially made an impact in this unfamiliar role, scoring twice off the bench when he first attempted it. However, since being named in the starting line-up, he has been unable to replicate that early form.
The Gunners struggled in front of the goal, and the 1-1 draw against Manchester United was another frustrating result in their pursuit of the Premier League title. While they are still mathematically in contention, closing the gap on an in-form Liverpool side seems increasingly unlikely. A lack of goals has been a recurring issue, and the absence of a recognised striker has significantly hindered their attacking play.
Wayne Rooney has weighed in on Arsenal’s situation, arguing that Merino cannot provide what a true striker would bring to the team. He believes that while the Spaniard possesses qualities that can contribute to the attack, he lacks the instinctive goal-scoring ability that a natural centre-forward offers.
Mikel Merino celebrates victory against Leicester City
(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
He stated, as quoted by Mirror Football:
“A proper number nine – a forward who has played there his whole life – brings something different to any team.
“I am talking about that natural goalscoring instinct, which a player who is trying to learn the position probably doesn’t have. A midfielder playing forward like Merino can get hold of the ball and bring others into play, but what a goalscorer brings is that selfishness of wanting to be in the penalty area to finish chances.”
Arsenal’s reliance on a makeshift striker has contributed to their struggles in front of goal, and it is evident that a long-term solution is needed. While Merino has filled the role to the best of his ability, he is not a natural centre-forward, and his limitations in that position have been exposed.