'Super player' Arsenal is driving Mikel Arteta 'crazy'

08/11/2025 11:57:00 ChampionChatter

Coach Mikel Arteta has praised Mikel Merino's performance, calling it outstanding.

In the context of Arsenal having many prominent stars, midfielder Mikel Merino is the name that Coach Mikel Arteta especially praises for his versatility and influence, despite often being underrated by experts and fans.

Arteta said: “We have used Merino in three different positions this season and he has performed well in all. He contributes greatly, especially when Viktor is unavailable. Merino is not a natural striker, but with his intelligence and competitiveness, he always tries to understand and fulfill the coach’s demands.”

The Spanish strategist emphasized that Merino has the mindset of a winner, always putting the team’s interests first and continuously learning to improve his performance. This makes him a strategic asset for the “Gunners” in various situations.

574890467_1386324396198344_11096 — Mikel Merino is considered a "strategic" card for Arsenal. Photo: Club

Recently, after a brilliant display with a double goal in the Champions League win over Slavia Prague, Merino was highly praised by fans. With the main striker Viktor Gyokeres sidelined due to a muscle injury, Merino was pushed to play as a central forward, a position not typical for him in his career.

Merino’s versatility is highly valued as Arsenal faces significant personnel losses. Alongside Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are also out injured, leaving Arsenal’s attack with fewer options.

However, Merino stepped up at the right time, playing a crucial role in the important Champions League victory and maintaining the team’s positive momentum.

get — Merino can play in multiple positions on the field. Photo: Club

In 2025, Merino has scored 20 goals across all competitions for both club and country, an impressive figure for a player not primarily a professional striker. This also demonstrates his growing influence in the Arsenal lineup.

Mikel Merino’s adaptability makes him one of the key players helping Arsenal stay in the title race.

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