Just after beating Leeds, Arsenal faced a double blow in the Premier League

Despite winning all 3 points against Leeds United, Arsenal is dealing with a challenging squad problem due to the simultaneous severe injuries of Bukayo Saka and Mikel Merino.

Arsenal’s nightmare began even before the match against Leeds United officially started. Bukayo Saka – initially trusted by coach Mikel Arteta to wear the captain’s armband – injured his left hip during the warm-up at Elland Road.

Arsenal fans grew worried as they saw their star player quietly heading to the tunnel with the physiotherapy team. This sudden absence forced Arteta to make an urgent lineup change: Noni Madueke was brought into the starting XI, and Christian Norgaard was added to the bench.

Although Madueke performed well and provided an assist, the gap left by Saka amid the intense title race is enormous.

While Saka’s injury was an immediate shock, Mikel Merino’s situation raised concerns about a long-term absence. The Spanish midfielder was not included in the matchday squad due to a foot problem.

Before the game, coach Mikel Arteta expressed deep concern on Sky Sports:

“He’s having issues with his foot. A bone is causing him pain. We’ve conducted some tests but need further specialist examinations to determine how long he will be sidelined.”

The need for specialist consultations highlights the seriousness of these injuries. Merino is not only a midfield orchestrator but also a versatile ace for Arteta. He can play anywhere in midfield and even act as a false striker when necessary. His absence removes a crucial weapon for Arsenal both offensively and defensively.

Arsenal has struggled with injuries since the start of the seasonand this has been the biggest obstacle preventing them from accelerating in the Premier League. Although they recently won at Elland Road, the growing injury list is putting the Gunners’ ambitions in jeopardy.

With the loss of both the wing leader Saka and the “silent conductor” Merino, Arteta must rely on squad depth and backup options like Madueke and Zubimendi to maintain dominance. The timeline for their return remains uncertain, pending final evaluations from the medical team.