Arsenal's Mikel Merino has stepped up to fill the void left by injuries to key forwards, rising to prominence as the unexpected centre-forward option under Mikel Arteta's management.
During the recent match against Leicester City on February 15, 2025, Merino scored two late goals after being substituted on at the 69th minute, showcasing his versatility and adaptability on the pitch. This stellar performance as a makeshift striker has led to speculation about whether he will maintain this role for Arsenal’s upcoming clash against West Ham on February 22.
Mikel Arteta acknowledged the unique challenges involved when transitioning Merino from midfield to starting forward. "Starting a game is very different... we have prepared for," Arteta remarked during press discussions leading up to the match. The Gunners currently find themselves with significant injury woes, which require the manager to be flexible with personnel. Key players such as Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus are all sidelined, necessitating creative solutions from the coaching staff.
After the Leicester City match, where Merino's entrance changed the game dynamics, there were questions about whether the tactics could be replicated against West Ham’s well-structured defense. Arteta noted, "We trained the last few weeks with different players… and he’s been one of them, but with other players as well... Every three days we’re going to need different options.”
Merino himself is eager to contribute wherever needed. “I said I’m ready to do whatever the team needs me to do. I think I showed it,” he stated, having embraced the necessity of his unexpected role. His confidence suggests potential for similar performances going forward, even as he navigates the adjustments of starting compared to replacing another player mid-game.
According to Arteta, the tactical formations Arsenal may employ with Merino as the focal point would require distinct gameplay compared to what he experienced coming off the bench. Teams adapt their strategies depending on starters, and Merino’s new position entails considerable responsibility. Arteta mentioned the importance of evaluating both immediate match requirements and long-term team structure amid the intense competition of the Premier League.
The Arsenal squad still boasts other forward options; Leandro Trossard and Raheem Sterling have had previous starting positions, yet recent performances have raised some doubts about their form. Trossard faced challenges during the match against Leicester, leading Arteta to explore alternatives.
West Ham, approaching their match against Arsenal with their own set of difficulties, haven’t won since mid-January and will seek to exploit Arsenal's adjustments. Manager Graham Potter will have his team organized and ready to take advantage of any mistakes. Merino's inclusion, especially starting, could be pivotal, putting him under the spotlight to perform against another Premier League adversary.
Mikel Arteta’s decision to integrate Merino as centre-forward could either pay off splendidly or present unexpected hurdles. Arteta urged the squad to focus on teamwork and communication, emphasizing how the performance against Leicester showed the potential of diversifying player roles. His acknowledgment of Merino's scoring capability reinforces the trust placed upon the young midfielder, who is relatively untested at this level of centre-forward play.
David Raya, Arsenal’s goalkeeper and Merino’s teammate, expressed confidence about Merino stepping up when the team needs it the most. “I think they had a chat about playing as a striker...,” he said, recalling the dynamics of pre-match discussions. He believed Merino’s intelligence on the pitch offered significant tactical advantages, enabling productive situational transitions for Arsenal.
Despite some reservations voiced about Merino’s ability to shoulder the physical demands of starting as centre-forward, there is optimism surrounding his skillset and ability to impact the game during intense situations. The belief among players and coaching staff alike can help bolster not only Merino’s performance but also the morale of the team.
Looking forward, Arsenal fans can only hope for continued success from Mikel Merino as he transitions from his comfort zone of midfield to the centre-forward position. Can he repeat the excellence displayed against Leicester when it truly counts against West Ham? The upcoming match will reveal whether this gamble pays off and if Merino can solidify his newfound role.