Arsenal’s preparations for the new Premier League season have been dealt a significant setback after new signing Mikel Merino was ruled out for several weeks with a shoulder injury. The Spanish midfielder, who joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad earlier this week, suffered the injury in his very first training session with the club. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed that the unfortunate incident occurred when Merino collided with teammate Gabriel Magalhaes, who accidentally fell on him, causing a small fracture in Merino’s shoulder.
“It’s very unfortunate. Yesterday (Thursday) he had a collision and he’s got a shoulder injury and it looks like he’ll be out for a few weeks,” Arteta told reporters on Friday. “It was in his first session with us. It’s really bad luck, we were all excited, everything was looking good. He landed on the floor, Gabriel fell on top of him and it looks like he has a small fracture.”
The injury means Merino will have to wait to make his debut for Arsenal, and will spend his first few weeks in North London on the treatment table. The midfielder had been in contention to make his first appearance in Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Brighton on Saturday. Merino’s absence is a blow for Arteta, who was counting on the Spaniard’s experience and quality to bolster Arsenal’s midfield options as they aim to challenge for the Premier League title.
Merino’s arrival at Arsenal came just days after his impressive performance in the Euro 2024 final, where he came off the bench to help Spain secure a victory against England. His addition was seen as a significant coup for the Gunners, but now the focus will be on his recovery and eventual integration into the squad.
Goalkeeper Reinforcements on the Horizon
Meanwhile, Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal are set to sign a goalkeeper before the transfer window closes on Friday evening. The Gunners have been left short-handed in the goalkeeping department after England international Aaron Ramsdale completed his move to Southampton on Friday, following his loss of the starting position to David Raya last season. Ramsdale, who was highly regarded for his charisma and energy during his time at the Emirates, expressed his desire to be the number one keeper elsewhere, leading to his departure.
“When he joined he brought a lot of joy, charisma and energy and he was good at that time,” Arteta said of Ramsdale. “Things developed and there was a situation where things were difficult for him and he insisted that he is happy when he plays so we had to fulfil that desire he had.”
Arsenal are reported to have agreed on a loan deal for Bournemouth’s Neto, who will serve as a backup to Raya. Arteta emphasized the need to bolster the squad, especially in key positions, as they navigate the demands of the season.
Arsenal’s Ambitions and Challenges Ahead
As Arsenal prepare for their upcoming match against Brighton, Arteta is focused on maintaining the team’s strong start to the season. The Gunners have won their opening two games and are determined to finally end Manchester City’s dominance at the top of the league after finishing as runners-up in the last two seasons. However, Arteta remains cautious, acknowledging the challenge posed by Brighton’s new manager Fabian Hurzeler, who has already masterminded impressive victories, including a surprising win against Manchester United.
“We try to prepare like every manager and team. We have to do the same against a team tomorrow who are doing really well against a coach who brings a new regime in what will be a tough match,” Arteta said.
The Gunners will be keen to continue their positive momentum, but with Merino sidelined and key positions needing reinforcement, the coming weeks will be a true test of Arsenal’s depth and resilience as they strive for success this season.
