Overview
- Merino equalised with a second-half header in the 1-1 result at Stamford Bridge, continuing his strong run as a false nine.
- Gyökeres returned from a hamstring issue after a late fitness test and logged an 18‑minute cameo off the bench.
- A late Hincapié cross saw Jurrien Timber get in front of an unmarked Gyökeres, denying a close-range header and drawing criticism of the striker’s authority in the moment.
- Theo Walcott and Jamie Carragher pointed to Merino’s reliability in marquee fixtures, while Daniel Sturridge argued Arsenal need their natural No. 9 on the pitch when fit.
- The £63.5–£64m summer signing’s goals have largely come against struggling sides to date, sharpening scrutiny as Arteta refrains from committing to one approach.