Arsenal suffers a heavy blow despite leading the Premier League

Midfielder Mikel Merino has officially been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season due to a rare foot injury, plunging Arsenal into a severe midfield crisis.

Arsenal's hopes of chasing the title have just been dealt a harsh setback as key midfielder Mikel Merino is confirmed to be sidelined for at least the next four months. The Spanish star has not played since the 2-3 loss to Manchester United at the end of January and recently underwent surgery to fully address a stress fracture in his right foot.

This is an immeasurable loss for coach Mikel Arteta, who admitted the team struggled to find a replacement during the final days of the January transfer window.

Regarding the nature of the injury, Merino's father expressed deep concern: "It is a stress fracture originating internally. It is extremely rare and there is no clear precedent to determine an exact recovery timeline". This uncertainty has made Arsenal’s coaching staff extremely cautious.

Mikel Arteta did not hide his disappointment when he said: "This is a massive shock. Mikel brings something unique to the team, but unfortunately, he will be sidelined for four months due to this unusual injury". The Spanish manager also emphasized the importance of the entire team supporting Merino mentally to help him overcome the toughest phase of his career.

This loss is even more bitter as Arsenal ended the winter transfer window without signing any midfielders, despite attempts to contact Sandro Tonali and Leon Goretzka.

Now, all of Merino’s hopes rest on recovering before June 11 to join Spain’s national team at the World Cup. He is expected to begin rehabilitation immediately after surgery, aiming to resume light training by late April.

Images of Merino watching from the stands at Emirates during the recent 3-0 win over Sunderland show he remains fully supportive of his teammates, even though his feet no longer allow him to compete directly.

During an emotional night at Emirates, close friend Martin Zubimendi paid a heartfelt tribute by replicating Merino’s signature corner flag celebration after scoring the opening goal.

This gesture was not only encouragement for his unfortunate teammate but also a reminder of the significant impact the former Real Sociedad star has had in London. Arsenal will have to learn to move forward without the “brain” of their midfield, while Merino begins a fierce race against time to protect his fragile World Cup dream.