Arsenal got Kai Havertz back from his long-term injury in the last few weeks and was set to have a fully fit senior side going into the final weeks of the season. They have now been handed a massive blow after a star player picked up a serious injury.
Arsenal Star Set for Spell on the Sideline
The Gunners got back to winning ways against Leeds United during the weekend, but they had injury trouble ahead of kick-off with Bukayo Saka pulling out after the warm-up. Mikel Arteta reported that the winger had a nigle and it was nothing serious after the game.
Mikel Merino, Christian Nørgaard, and Myles Lewis Skylle were also not a part of the matchday squad, and it was reported that it was down to a tactical decision by the manager. However, the manager reported after the game that the Spaniard had a foot issue and was undergoing tests.
“He’s got an issue in his foot. It’s a bone that’s giving him some pain, and we have some exams, we need some more specialists to look at it and to see how long he will be out.”
BBC Sport has now reported that the midfielder is set for a spell on the sidelines. He has a significant issue and has been sent to meet a specialist.
Arsenal have since revealed that Merino suffered the injury during their 3-2 loss to Manchester United. He is set to undergo surgery, but could return to the pitch before the end of the season. The club statement read:
“Further to sustaining a foot injury towards the end of our game against Manchester United on January 25, subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed Mikel Merino has a bone injury in his right foot. Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme.”
“Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season. Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”
Merino was a key player for Arteta this season, scoring six goals in all competitions. The $36 million signing has also led the attack this season when needed, when Havertz and Gabriel Jesus were out injured, and Viktor Gyökeres was not in form.
