There’s a growing sense of anticipation surrounding Arsenal’s training ground, with one player in particular catching everyone’s attention.
Since the summer transfer window closed, fans have been eager to see the new arrivals in action, especially after the Gunners made some key signings to strengthen their squad.
Mikel Arteta, the mastermind behind Arsenal’s recent resurgence, has revealed some interesting details about the player in question. It turns out that Spain midfielder Mikel Merino, who joined from Real Sociedad, has been battling with a frustrating setback.
Injured during his very first training session, Merino has been sidelined, delaying his much-anticipated debut for the North London club.
Mikel Arteta on Mikel Merino
However, there’s good news as Mikel Arteta shared that Merino is back on the pitch and eager to make an impact. The player’s desperation to get started and contribute to Arsenal’s campaign is evident.
“We have to keep him in the cage! He’s been pushing everybody, all the physios, the doctors, everybody,” Arteta said on Arsenal’s website.
“He really wants it. We’re ready now to start exposing him with contact, and he looks really good in training.”
On his qualities, Arteta added: “He’s got an unbelievable football brain. He’s so intelligent the way he decides, the way he occupies spaces, he makes decisions. It’s very rare to see that.
“He’s a really talented player in defending or attacking phases. He can do things which complement the qualities we have in midfield. He’s got physicality, then he’s also a big threat in the opponents’ box too.”
