Mikel Merino Out for Weeks After Injury in First Arsenal Training Session

Key Points

• Mikel Merino sustained an injury in his first training session with Arsenal.
• The injury is expected to sideline him for several weeks.
• Merino recently joined Arsenal on loan from Real Sociedad.

Overview

Mikel Merino is reportedly facing several weeks on the sidelines after sustaining an injury in his first training session with Arsenal.

The midfielder joined the Gunners on loan from Real Sociedad in the January transfer window, but his debut has been delayed by the setback.

The extent of Merino's injury is not yet known, but it is believed to be a muscular issue.

Impact on Arsenal

Merino's injury is a blow to Arsenal's midfield options, with the club already short of numbers in that area.

The Spaniard was expected to provide competition for Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka, but his absence will leave Mikel Arteta with fewer options.

Arsenal are still in contention for the Premier League title and Europa League, so Merino's injury could prove to be costly.

Merino's Career

Merino is a highly-rated midfielder who has been capped by Spain at international level.

He spent the first six years of his career with Borussia Dortmund before joining Real Sociedad in 2018.

The 26-year-old has made over 150 appearances for the Basque club, helping them reach the Copa del Rey final in 2020.

Conclusion

Mikel Merino's injury is a disappointing setback for Arsenal, who were hoping to add some depth to their midfield.

The Spaniard will now have to focus on recovering from his injury and getting back on the pitch as soon as possible.

In the meantime, Arsenal will have to find a way to cope without Merino, who was expected to play a key role in the club's push for silverware this season.