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Paul Merson recommends that Mikel Arteta make a change to Arsenal’s attacking lineup ahead of their Champions League knockout game against PSV.
Former Arsenal player and football pundit Paul Merson has called on Mikel Arteta to make a significant change to Arsenal’s frontline ahead of their crucial Champions League knockout game against PSV Eindhoven. Merson believes that the current setup, which has seen midfielder Mikel Merino deployed as a makeshift striker, is not the best approach for the Gunners.
Arsenal has been grappling with an injury crisis that has sidelined key attacking players such as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli. This has forced Arteta to experiment with Merino in an advanced role, a decision that Merson finds perplexing. Despite Merino’s two-goal cameo against Leicester City, Merson argues that the Spanish midfielder lacks the necessary attributes to lead the line effectively in high-stakes matches like the upcoming clash against PSV.
Merson has instead advocated for Raheem Sterling to be given the nod in the striker position. Although Sterling has struggled to find form since his loan move from Chelsea, Merson believes that his pace and experience make him a more suitable option than Merino. “Defenders will be happy to play against Merino every day of the week. He’s not a centre forward. At least Sterling’s played up there before,” Merson stated.
The former Arsenal star also highlighted the importance of this match for the Gunners, given their current standing in the Premier League and their elimination from both domestic cup competitions. With the Champions League representing their last realistic chance of silverware this season, Merson emphasized the need for Arteta to make bold decisions to ensure the team’s success.
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