Mikel Merino Speaks Out After Surgery: "I'm Already Getting Closer" to Return from Foot Injury

Arsenal's midfield player Mikel Merino has delivered an encouraging update to supporters following surgery on his foot problem that will likely keep him sidelined for the majority of the ongoing Premier League championship campaign.

Merino sustained a break in his right foot during last month's loss to Manchester United, momentarily creating speculation about the Gunners potentially acquiring a midfielder during the January transfer window deadline.

The Spanish international has now undergone surgical treatment to address the issue, sharing with fans via an Instagram post: "Surgery completed! One step closer to my return."

Merino continued: "Massive thanks to everyone for your messages and support. It truly gives me additional motivation to tackle this recovery. Vamos!"

While not typically regarded as a first-choice player in Arsenal's strongest lineup, Merino's value to the squad is highlighted by his versatility across multiple positions. His temporary deployment as an emergency striker in November and December yielded seven combined goals and assists.

With the Gunners pursuing silverware across four competitions—Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup—in their quest for an unprecedented Quadruple, Merino was expected to feature prominently in squad rotation and provide backup for other injury concerns during the crucial final stretch.

When Will Mikel Merino Next Play for Arsenal?

When Will Mikel Merino Next Play for Arsenal?

Discussing Merino prior to the operation, fellow Mikel Arteta remained noncommittal about whether Merino could feature again before the current campaign concludes.

"Mikel brings something special to the squad but he'll be unavailable for four months sadly with an extremely uncommon injury," the Arsenal boss explained.

"We must support him, ensure he stays closely involved with the team because he can still contribute significant value to both players and coaching staff while keeping him engaged."

Reports from Spain indicate he could resume training around May, which at least creates the possibility of a return to action before the season's conclusion—Arsenal could potentially be active until May 30 if they advance to the Champions League final. Whether Merino would possess sufficient match fitness to make a meaningful contribution after months of absence, assuming he returns at all, remains questionable.

If not, his next appearance in Arsenal colors would occur during preseason preparations for the 2026–27 campaign.

This situation could also threaten his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Spain. Merino was included in La Roja's Euro 2024 championship squad and has received call-ups—when healthy—for every squad since early 2023, brought in as part of the natural transition following the 2022 World Cup.

However, not returning to fitness until May or June, potentially just days before Spain's scheduled Group H opener against Cape Verde on June 15, presents complications. If Spain coach Luis de la Fuente believes his squad is capable enough to navigate the group phase without Merino, choosing him with plans to utilize him only when knockout rounds commence at month's end represents an alternative approach.