Merino To Undergo Surgery On Foot Bone Injury

Mikel Merino faces a lengthy spell out after Arsenal confirmed surgery on a right foot bone injury. The midfielder has been a regular this season, with 33 appearances in all competitions. Merino has scored

six times, the highest total among Arsenal midfielders, and added three assists from 26 chances created, with only six teammates creating more.

The problem occurred late in Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat against Manchester United last weekend. Merino played most of that match before feeling pain in the right foot. The issue ruled Merino out of the following fixtures against Kairat Almaty and Leeds United, leaving Arsenal without a key midfield option.

After the Leeds United match, Mikel Arteta explained that Merino would visit a specialist for a full assessment. Subsequent tests confirmed that surgery is needed to address the bone damage in the right foot. Arsenal expect Merino to be absent for an extended period, but remain hopeful of a return before the end of the season.