The left side of the midfield has been a slight sticking point in Arsenal’s build-up across the past calendar year, particularly since Granit Xhaka left last July to join Bayer Leverkusen. The original idea of playing Kai Havertz, signed from Chelsea in that same window, as the left-sided No 8 did not quite bring the fluid ball progression that it promised on paper. Moving Declan Rice, another bought in the summer of 2023, into that box-to-box role has proven to be an effective solution. But this system places a lot of strain on the three starting midfielders to perform at a consistently high level as the games stack up and the pressure mounts during the run-in. Mikel Merino’s arrival would help to lessen the burden, a dependable figure who has averaged over 40 appearances per season across his six years with Real Sociedad. He is comfortable playing in that left half-space, where Xhaka used to reside, although he is more of a box-to-box athlete than a tempo-setter from deep.
Mikel Arteta has suggested that Arsenal may still look to bring in players before the transfer window closes on August 30. The north London side have already signed defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, goalkeeper Tommy Setford from Ajax and made goalkeeper David Raya's loan move from Brentford permanent. Arsenal also look set to sign midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad. Forward Gabriel Jesus missed Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday due to a “slight groin issue” and Arteta has admitted that his side are short in certain areas of the pitch.
He told Sky Sports: “We are really happy with the squad that we have. It’s true that we had an injury with Gabby Jesus, that we missed him & we are a little bit short, but if we can do something, we will do it. But at the moment, I love the ones that we have.”
The Potential Impact of Merino's Arrival on Arsenal
Mikel Merino would bring an element of control and tactical flexibility to the Arsenal midfield. The 28-year-old Spaniard has been a mainstay at Real Sociedad, and his experience, composure, and ability to dictate play in the middle of the park would be valuable assets to Arteta’s side.
Merino's Strengths
His ability to win tackles, play incisive passes and break forward with purpose would make him a natural fit in Arsenal’s midfield setup. He has been praised for his work-rate and defensive solidity, qualities that would complement Arsenal’s existing midfielders.
Arsenal's Need for a Midfield Anchor
While Declan Rice has impressed in his early days at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal could benefit from a deeper-lying midfielder who can act as a shield in front of the defense and allow Rice to be more expressive in the attacking half. Merino’s skillset could prove beneficial in this regard.
What Else Can Arteta Do Before the Window Closes?
The addition of Merino would strengthen Arsenal’s midfield considerably, but Arteta may still feel the need to address other areas of the squad.
Possible Areas for Improvement
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Cover for Gabriel Jesus: With Jesus sidelined, Arteta may consider bringing in a striker to provide competition and backup for Eddie Nketiah.
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Depth in the Right-Back Position: Ben White has performed admirably as a right-back, but having additional depth in this position would be a wise move for Arsenal.
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A Young Winger: Arsenal could benefit from a young, talented winger who can provide pace and creativity off the bench.
Will Arteta's Arsenal Become Unstoppable?
The arrival of Mikel Merino is a positive step for Arsenal, but it remains to be seen if Arteta will make any further additions to the squad before the transfer window slams shut. If they do secure another couple of deals, they could be a truly formidable force in the Premier League this season.
With a strong squad and a capable manager, Arsenal are certainly poised to challenge for major honors. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether they can push their ambitions even further.
