In a surprising turn of events, Mikel Merino has showcased his versatility on the pitch by stepping up as a striker for Arsenal amidst a spate of injuries to key forwards. The 28-year-old midfielder, who joined the club from Real Sociedad last summer for €32.5 million (£27.4 million), has made the tricky transition from a central midfielder to a forward under manager Mikel Arteta. Merino found the net twice during his debut as a centre-forward on February 15, 2025, against Leicester City, and has continued to make a significant impact since then.
After the injuries to regular centre-forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, Merino’s new role has become pivotal. "I’m getting used to being a centre-forward, fighting with the centre-backs," he explained in an interview with The Guardian. "You’re always at a disadvantage and they like to mark their territory, intimidate you physically." With his ability to adapt, he has quickly become an essential player for the club.
Since that fateful game against Leicester, Merino has not only started the last six games for Arsenal across both the Premier League and Champions League but has also scored four goals in his new role, bringing his season total to six goals in 33 appearances. "It’s more mental than midfield because it’s a more direct duel. But I’m adapting and if there’s one thing I’ve always been, it’s a battler: I like the contact, I never back down," he added, showcasing his determination to succeed.
Merino recalled his surprise when he was informed of his new position. "I think they did it deliberately, not telling me until the last minute because they know I like to have everything under control," he said, reflecting on how it alleviated pre-game nerves. "They told me late, I didn’t think much, I went out, I flowed, I scored two."
Currently, Merino is away with the Spain national team, preparing for their Nations League quarter-final matches against the Netherlands, which he views as a significant opportunity for both personal and team development. After the international break, he will return to Arsenal, where they will face Fulham at home on April 1, 2025.
Earlier in his career, Merino demonstrated his ability to perform in various positions, from youth goalkeeper to left-sided centre-back and even a No. 10 at various clubs and with the Spanish youth teams. During a briefing session with Spain’s squad, Merino humorously detailed his journey through these positions, but he has heartily embraced his current role. "Lately, I like this one," he noted, pointing to the forward position on a tactics sheet. His newfound role has brought success not only to him but also to Arsenal, as he outscored notable strikers like Harry Kane, Lautaro Martínez, and Erling Haaland since taking on the position.
"The beauty of stats is you can present them in ways that make you look good," he chuckled, reflecting on his impressive numbers. Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised Merino, suggesting he embodies the qualities of a classic No. 9 that the team has been chasing.
Merino attributes part of his adaptability to a family connection; his father, Miguel-Angel, was a striker whose career parallels Merino’s current journey. They have had a significant impact on each other’s careers, especially in understanding the nuances of scoring and positioning.
Reflecting on the series of injuries that introduced him to the forward line, Merino said, “On social media, even from friends, I was seeing messages about me playing up front and just laughed. I’m thinking ‘the things people come up with’ but that changed quickly when I was approached by a club analyst the morning before the Leicester match.”
Once on the pitch, Merino relished the chance to prove his capabilities: “I said: 'Whatever you need,'” when asked about taking on the forward role. His success came as no surprise to those familiar with his tenacious playing style. "He had said don’t go mad, that they had no intention of me being a standard centre-forward... it was about using my qualities: bring the ball down, do things I know how to do. And, really, that’s when I found out. Then I was lucky enough – or unlucky enough – to score two goals and win the game," he recounted.
Looking ahead, the immediate future presents an exciting match for Merino and Spain in their Nations League clash. He is keenly aware of the challenges ahead, including the Arsenal fixture against Real Madrid, and the expectations that come with a high-stakes Champions League match. Despite feeling the pressures that come with being thrust into a more iconic role at Arsenal, the intensity does not deter him. "We know Madrid’s history, but we have to know that we’re really good too, that we’re getting better, and that we can beat anyone," he asserted.
In conclusion, Mikel Merino’s rise as a forward not only highlights his versatility but also illustrates an inherent ability to thrive under pressure. As he continues to balance dual roles with his club and country, he has clearly demonstrated that he is more than capable of thriving in every position he plays. With the upcoming matches, anticipation grows for what he can achieve, both as a central figure at Arsenal and a key player for Spain.
