Overview
- Arteta praised Merino as an intelligent, competitive player who can adapt to any position, highlighting his willingness to learn and contribute.
- With Viktor Gyokeres ruled out by a muscle injury and Kai Havertz plus Gabriel Jesus unlikely to feature, Arsenal lack a fit specialist striker for the match.
- Merino has produced nine goals and three assists in 17 appearances as a striker since February, including a brace in the 3-0 Champions League win over Slavia Prague.
- Arsenal enter the weekend six points clear atop the Premier League after 10 straight wins across competitions and a run of eight consecutive clean sheets.
- Cesc Fàbregas publicly applauded Arteta’s decision to use Merino up front, as the 29-year-old leads Arsenal’s 2025 scoring with 25 goal involvements.