Arsenal star set for lenghty spell sidelined after injury against Man United

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino is set for a significant spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious foot injury that will require surgery and rule him out for an extended period.

Merino sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 3–2 loss to Manchester United, an injury which the club revealed was causing pain in a bone in his right foot and prompted specialist evaluation before it was confirmed he would need an operation. 

As a result, Merino missed Arsenal’s 4–0 Premier League victory over Leeds United, and medical updates suggest he could be sidelined for several weeks to potentially months as he recovers and rehabilitates following surgery.

“Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme,” the 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. Everyone is fully focused on supporting Mikel to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”

The Spaniard has been a key figure in midfield this season, contributing both defensively and offensively in 21 of Arsenal’s 23 Premier League games, and his absence coincides with a crucial phase in Arsenal’s title race and Champions League campaign. 

Hence, with the January transfer window closing imminently on February 2nd, the Gunners are scouring the market for opportunities to replenish their squad depth, the Athletic reported.