Arsenal’s Merino Facing Lengthy Spell Out After Foot Surgery Blow

Arsenal have been dealt a major setback in their Premier League title bid after confirming that midfielder Mikel Merino will undergo surgery on a bone injury in his right foot, leaving his season in serious doubt. The Spaniard suffered the problem late in the defeat to Manchester United on 25 January, and further assessment has revealed damage severe enough to require an operation and a prolonged spell on the sidelines.

Merino, 29, missed Arsenal’s 4–0 win away to Leeds United as medical staff ordered scans and consultations with specialists following discomfort in his foot. Those examinations confirmed a bone injury, with the club opting for surgery in a bid to ensure a full recovery rather than risk the issue worsening during the run‑in. Arsenal stated that he will go under the knife this week before beginning a structured rehabilitation programme, stressing that their priority is to support him back to full fitness as quickly and safely as possible.

Initial guidance from the club is that Merino will be out for an “extended period”, and while Arsenal hope to have him back in full training before the end of the campaign, there is growing concern he may not feature again this season. Some reports suggest there is still cautious optimism that he could return around May, potentially in time to stake a late claim for Spain’s World Cup squad, but the timeline remains uncertain and dependent on how he responds to surgery and rehab.

The injury comes at a particularly damaging moment for Mikel Arteta’s side. Merino has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers since arriving in the summer, making around 33 appearances in all competitions and contributing goals, creativity and tactical flexibility in multiple midfield roles and even further forward when required. His versatility has been crucial in big fixtures, giving Arteta a reliable option both in and out of possession, and his absence leaves a sizeable gap in the heart of the team.

With the title race finely poised and fixtures piling up, Arsenal are now considering late moves in the transfer market to soften the blow. The club are understood to be actively exploring the possibility of a short‑term midfield signing, most likely a loan deal, to help cover the minutes and maintain depth in a key area of the pitch. Arteta has already been juggling his options in midfield, and losing Merino may force a rethink of both personnel and shape in the coming weeks.

Merino, meanwhile, has addressed the setback publicly, posting on social media that the injury has come at the “least convenient” moment but insisting he sees it as a challenge to show strength and resilience. He thanked fans for their support and vowed to “come back stronger” with the help of Arsenal’s medical team, a message that will offer a measure of encouragement to supporters digesting yet another injury blow in a decisive stretch of the season.

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