Mikel Merino has quietly become one of Arsenal’s most influential performers, yet he still feels like the least talked-about signing of recent years. While the spotlight often shines on the big-money arrivals, the Spaniard has carved out a unique and unexpected role, transforming himself into one of Mikel Arteta’s most versatile players.
Merino arrived from Real Sociedad with a reputation for control, intelligence and physicality in midfield. But circumstances took him in a different direction. An injury crisis late last season pushed him into the centre-forward role, and what looked like a temporary fix ended up becoming one of Arsenal’s best tactical surprises. His performances as the makeshift No. 9 earned widespread praise, with his movement, aggression and finishing standing out at a time when the team desperately needed solutions.
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