Leicester 0-2 Arsenal: Late Mikel Merino Double Keeps Gunners in Title Race

Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on Saturday, thanks to a late brace from Mikel Merino. The win brings Mikel Arteta’s side within four points of league leaders Liverpool, while Leicester remain in deep relegation trouble.

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Match Report: How the Game Unfolded

A Dull Start Before Arsenal’s Late Spark

The game began at a lethargic pace, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy had admitted pre-match that his team was miles behind Arsenal, but the performance on the pitch suggested otherwise.

The first half was marked by wasted opportunities, including two misplaced shots from Leandro Trossard after excellent buildup play by Martin Ødegaard. The home crowd barely had anything to cheer about until Wilfred Ndidi headed just wide before the halftime whistle.

Arsenal’s brightest spark was Ethan Nwaneri, who showcased his incredible skill and pace against Leicester’s Victor Kristiansen. The 17-year-old came close twice, hitting the crossbar on one occasion and testing the goalkeeper with another curling effort.

Mikel Merino the Unexpected Hero

With Arsenal pushing for a breakthrough, Arteta made the bold decision to push Mikel Merino into a makeshift striker role. The gamble paid off when the Spaniard leapt high to meet an inch-perfect cross from Nwaneri, scoring in the 81st minute.

Merino sealed the win six minutes later, calmly slotting home a fast-paced cross from Trossard, sending the Arsenal fans into wild celebrations.

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Key Talking Points

1. Mikel Merino Proves His Worth Up Front

With Kai Havertz out injured, Arteta was forced to find a new solution in attack. While Merino is not a natural forward, his aerial presence and finishing ability made the difference in a game where Arsenal’s usual attackers struggled.

His brace raises questions about whether he could be a short-term alternative in Arsenal’s striker crisis.

2. Raheem Sterling’s Struggles Continue

Raheem Sterling had a night to forget, misplacing passes, straying offside, and failing to impact the game. His lack of confidence was evident, and Arteta’s decision to substitute him in the 69th minute felt more like mercy than tactics.

Sterling’s struggles leave Arsenal with an even bigger dilemma in attack moving forward.

3. Declan Rice’s Role Mismanaged

Arteta’s decision to push Declan Rice into a more advanced position backfired, leaving Thomas Partey isolated in midfield. While Rice’s energy and work rate were undeniable, he lacked the final pass needed to unlock Leicester’s defense.

Arteta may need to rethink his midfield setup in future games.

4. Leicester’s Attacking Problems Deepen

Leicester’s goal drought at home extended to over two months, making them just the fourth team in top-flight history to lose five consecutive home games without scoring. The lack of urgency from both the players and fans suggests that relegation is becoming a real possibility.

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What’s Next for Arsenal?

With the title race heating up, can Arsenal maintain their momentum and keep pressure on Liverpool? Who should lead the attack in the absence of a senior striker?

Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇