Arsenal are grappling with multiple injuries as they approach the season’s first international break. Currently fourth in the Premier League, the Gunners’ momentum has been slowed by a 1-1 draw with Brighton, a game in which Declan Rice received a red card. The midfielder will now miss the north London derby against Tottenham, adding to the club’s injury woes.
One of the biggest concerns for Mikel Arteta’s squad is new signing Mikel Merino, who has yet to make his Arsenal debut. Merino, who joined the Gunners for a fee that could rise to £32 million, suffered a shoulder injury during his first training session. Arteta confirmed that the midfielder’s injury could keep him out for several weeks, with reports suggesting he could be sidelined for up to two months. The incident occurred during a collision with teammate Gabriel Magalhaes, which resulted in a possible small fracture. No definitive return date has been given for Merino, as further medical tests are required to assess the extent of the injury. It’s a frustrating setback for the 27-year-old, who had been eager to make an immediate impact.