MERINO SEES INJURY AS A BLESSING AFTER IMPRESSIVE DEBUT
Arsenal News

MERINO SEES INJURY AS A BLESSING AFTER IMPRESSIVE DEBUT

Mikel Merino believes that the injury he suffered in his very first training session with Arsenal turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The summer signing made his long-awaited debut for the Gunners in their 2-0 Champions League win over Paris Saint-Germain, coming off the bench in the second half to play the final 25 minutes in place of Thomas Partey.

Merino, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for over £30 million in August, had to wait patiently for his first appearance after a freak collision with center-back Gabriel left him with a shoulder injury. The setback was mentally tough for the Spaniard, but he now views the situation as an opportunity that has allowed him to get up to speed with Arsenal’s style and tactics.

ARSENAL’S LATE MOVES IN TRANSFER WINDOW
Transfer News

ARSENAL’S LATE MOVES IN TRANSFER WINDOW

Arsenal wrapped up their summer transfer business in the early hours of Saturday morning, with the final touches being made as the cleaning crew was already at work at the club’s London Colney training ground. Staff worked late into the night to finalize a crucial loan deal for Raheem Sterling, marking the end of a busy transfer window.

Despite the last-minute nature of the deal, Arsenal are pleased with the overall business they’ve conducted. Sporting director Edu expressed pride in the club’s accomplishments, highlighting key signings like Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino as important additions that align with their strategic goals. The club aimed to enhance squad depth, allowing manager Mikel Arteta the flexibility to rotate players throughout a demanding season.

ARSENAL AGREE DEAL FOR MERINO
Transfer News

ARSENAL AGREE DEAL FOR MERINO

Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Real Sociedad for the signing of midfielder Mikel Merino. The Gunners are set to pay €33.5 million (£28.4 million) upfront, with an additional €5 million (£4.2 million) in potential add-ons.

Merino, 28, is expected to undergo a medical soon before finalizing the move by signing a long-term contract. Personal terms between the player and Arsenal have already been agreed, making the transfer close to completion. The Spanish international, who was instrumental in Spain’s victory at Euro 2024, where he played in all seven matches, is set to bolster Arsenal’s midfield options, slotting in as a No. 8.