Paul Merson Urges Mikel Arteta to Make Tactical Change Ahead of Champions League Clash

🕓 Last updated on October 3, 2025

Paul Merson pushes for an Arsenal attacking lineup change, urging Mikel Arteta to pick Sterling over Merino ahead of PSV clash.

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has urged Mikel Arteta to make a bold decision in the Arsenal attacking lineup change ahead of their crucial Champions League knockout clash against PSV Eindhoven. He believes the current approach, which places Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker, will not deliver success in such a high-pressure tie.

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Arsenal’s injury crisis has left the squad without key attackers such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz. In their absence, Arteta has experimented with Merino in an advanced role. While Merino impressed with two goals against Leicester City, Merson insists the Spanish midfielder does not possess the qualities to lead the line in Europe.

Sterling Backed as Better Option

Instead, Merson has called for Raheem Sterling to start as striker. Although Sterling has struggled for form since arriving on loan from Chelsea, Merson argues that his pace, movement, and experience make him a stronger 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 explained.

The former Arsenal winger also underlined the significance of this Champions League fixture. With the Gunners already out of domestic cup competitions and trailing in the Premier League, Europe remains their best chance for silverware. According to Merson, Arteta must take risks and trust proven forwards if Arsenal are to keep their European dream alive.

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