Paul Merson calls on Mikel Arteta to bench Arsenal midfielder against Man City

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Paul Merson has cautioned Mikel Arteta not to include Arsenal midfielder Jorginho in the starting lineup for this weekend’s crucial Premier League match against Manchester City.

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has urged manager Mikel Arteta to bench midfielder Jorginho for the upcoming match against Manchester City. Merson believes that Jorginho’s inclusion in the starting lineup could be detrimental to Arsenal’s chances of securing a victory in this crucial Premier League fixture.

Merson’s comments come as Arsenal prepares to host Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The Gunners are currently second in the league table, six points behind leaders Liverpool, and a win against City could significantly boost their title aspirations. However, Merson feels that Jorginho, despite his experience and quality, may not be the right fit for this particular match.

“Jorginho has been a fantastic player for Arsenal, but I think he should be on the bench for this game,” Merson told Sportskeeda. “Manchester City aren’t the same team they used to be; they don’t press as intensely as before. Jorginho is great at getting out of the press and picking a pass, but I think Declan Rice and Thomas Partey can dominate the midfield without him.”

Merson’s suggestion is based on the belief that Arsenal’s midfield duo of Rice and Partey can handle City’s midfield without needing Jorginho’s presence. He also pointed out that Jorginho could be a valuable substitute if Arsenal finds themselves in a commanding position during the match.

gettyimages 2192870012 612x612 1 — Mikel Arteta urged by Paul Merson to drop Jorginho against City. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The former Arsenal player emphasized the importance of this game for the Gunners, especially with the crowd at the Emirates expected to be buzzing and demanding nothing but a win. Merson believes that Arsenal has the potential to open up the title race if they can secure a victory against City.

“Let’s not forget that the pressure is always mounting on Arsenal with every passing week,” Merson added. “They had to beat Aston Villa after Liverpool won late against Brentford and ended up blowing a two-goal lead! Arsenal still have an advantage here because I don’t think City are back to their best yet.”