Mikel Arteta Hit by Injury Blow as Arsenal Star Faces Extended Spell Out

Arsenal confirm Mikel Merino will undergo surgery after suffering a serious foot injury during Premier League clash.

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta faces a major setback in the Premier League title race after the club confirmed that Mikel Merino will miss a sustained spell with a serious foot injury.

The Gunners released an official statement confirming that Mikel Merino sustained a bone injury to his right foot during the closing stages of Arsenal game against Manchester United at Old Trafford on January 25.

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After further medical assessments and specialist reviews, Arsenal confirmed that the Spanish midfielder will undergo surgery in the coming days, followed by a structured rehabilitation programme. The club did not provide a precise return date, but they expect Merino to remain out for a “sustained spell” and hope he can return to full training before the end of the season.

Blow to Arsenal’s Title Push

The injury comes at a critical moment for Arsenal, who currently sit top of the Premier League table as the title race intensifies. Merino has been a key figure since arriving from Real Sociedad in a £31 million deal, offering physicality, tactical intelligence, and balance alongside Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard.

The 29-year-old has made 18 league appearances, contributing three goals and four assists, and has been central to Arsenal’s midfield control during the campaign.

Merino picked up the injury in what appeared to be an innocuous late challenge during Arsenal’s loss against Manchester United. Arteta had initially played down concerns after the match, stating the club would “assess it properly,” but confirmation of a bone injury has now ruled out any prospect of a quick return.

The absence is expected to stretch Arsenal’s squad depth as they juggle domestic and European commitments in the coming weeks.

Arsenal are already managing other fitness concerns, with Bukayo Saka recently missing a matchday through injury precaution, while Declan Rice has been nursing a minor knock.

With the winter transfer window closing at 7 PM GMT today (February 2, 2026), talk has ramped up over whether Arsenal might make a last-minute move to strengthen their midfield. However, Mikel Arteta could instead rely on proven figures like Declan Rice, Martín Zubimendi, or Christian Nørgaard, while also placing faith in versatile options such as Eberechi Eze or youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly to cover for Merino’s absence.

Arteta Faces Tactical Test

As Arsenal prepare for a crucial run of fixtures across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups, Arteta will need to adapt without one of his most reliable midfield performers.

The club has stressed its commitment to supporting Merino throughout his recovery, with the long-term aim of ensuring he returns at full fitness for the season’s decisive stages.

While the injury represents a significant challenge, Arsenal’s depth and tactical flexibility could yet prove decisive as they continue their pursuit of silverware.

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