Mikel Arteta Praises Mikel Merino’s Match-Winning Performance Against Leicester

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hailed Mikel Merino for his game-changing impact off the bench in Saturday’s dramatic victory over Leicester City. With Kai Havertz sidelined due to injury, the veteran midfielder stepped up as a makeshift striker and netted two crucial goals to secure all three points for the Gunners.

Arteta’s Reaction: “Unbelievable Performance”

Merino Steps Up in Havertz’s Absence

The absence of a natural striker left Arsenal struggling to find the back of the net, but Merino’s late heroics turned the game in their favor. Arteta was full of praise for the Spanish midfielder’s performance:

“We believed that Mikel could give us something different, with Leo [Trossard] on the left, and… unbelievable. You have to try things to get them working, and he made them work.”

Arteta highlighted Merino’s attacking instincts, suggesting that his physicality and positional awareness were key factors in his success up front:

“He certainly has the build of a striker. He can sense danger, anticipate actions, and his timing in the box is excellent. Then, of course, he has the ability to finish.”

A Surprise Role for Merino

The Arsenal star revealed that he only learned about his new role as a striker hours before kickoff:

“He told me to come in as a striker this morning,” Merino admitted. “It’s the first time in my career that I’ve played in that position.”

Despite the sudden shift, Merino delivered a clutch performance and dedicated his goals to his wife, admitting he had forgotten to buy her a Valentine’s Day gift.

Can Merino Continue to Shine Up Front?

With Kai Havertz sidelined, could Mikel Merino be the short-term solution for Arsenal’s attacking dilemma? Or should Arteta explore other options in the squad?

👉 Drop your thoughts in the comments!