Mikel Merino is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Arsenal have confirmed, after the midfielder suffered a broken foot.
Merino, 29, has been a key player for Arsenal this season on their title charge, playing 33 times so far and scoring six goals – be that as a midfielder or as a striker covering for injuries.
Now, though, the Gunners will have to do make do for potentially the rest of the season without him, meaning others will likely have to step up.
Arsenal confirmed on Sunday that the midfielder would be heading for surgery, but did not put a timeframe on his return.
‘Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme,’ a club statement read.
‘Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of the season.
Arsenal’s Mikel Merino has been ruled out for an ‘extended period’ with a serious foot injury
‘Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.’
In terms of midfield options, the Gunners have the likes of Declan Rice, Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Kai Havertz available.
Ethan Nwaneri, who had been playing out wide for much of his limited game time with Arsenal, has joined Marseille on loan for the rest of the season.
Arsenal are looking at replacements in the market. The transfer window closes on Monday evening.
