Mikel Merino has shared a hospital bed update after undergoing foot surgery that will sideline him for the majority of the season, with team-mate Declan Rice sending a message of support
16:24, 09 Feb 2026
Three soccer players dressed in red and white jerseys stand on the field, engaged in a conversation, with a blurred background of spectators.
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Declan Rice has showed support to his team-mate
Injured Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has given supporters a glimpse into his recovery journey following surgery on a troublesome foot problem.
The Spanish star picked up the knock during the dramatic 3-2 loss to Manchester United, with reports from football.london suggesting the operation will keep him out of action for most of what remains of the campaign.
There's cautious optimism that the midfielder might return by May, though he'll be unable to bear significant weight on the affected foot for approximately eight weeks - during which time he'll still be able to maintain fitness through gym sessions.
Mikel Merino in his hospital bed
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Mikel Merino has shared a picture of him in his hospital bed(Image: Mikel Merino/Instagram)
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Taking to Instagram from his hospital bed post-surgery, the Gunners ace penned: "Surgery done! Already closer to be back."
He added: "Thank you so much to everyone for your messages and love. It really gives me even more energy to face the challenge. Vamos," reports the Mirror.
Teammate Declan Rice was quick to show solidarity, commenting: "With you brother," accompanied by a red heart emoji.
Arsenal gaffer Mikel Arteta had previously confirmed the setback during a press briefing before the weekend's victory over Sunderland. When quizzed about whether Merino could feature again this term, Arteta replied: "Well, we hope so.
"I don't know. Obviously, he needs to go through a procedure, which is never always positive. He's a big player for us.
"An athlete that has such a versatility and capacity to compete in various positions. Yeah, that's a big blow."
He continued: "Let's see. It's a very rare injury, so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery. How that reacts daily.
"Obviously, monitor it throughout the week for the surgery. I know Mikel is going to do absolutely everything that he possibly can to come back as quick as possible.
"But, as well, he has to respect the healing process and the fact that, obviously, it's an injury that is quite rare."
Merino has been a crucial figure for Arsenal since his arrival at the club. This season he has featured in 33 matches across all competitions, netting six goals and contributing three assists.
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The Gunners currently lead the Premier League standings as they chase their first title triumph in more than two decades. They return to action on Thursday evening when they make the trip to face Brentford (8pm kick-off).