"When Mikel Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in August 2024, few thought they would ever ask if he could be their number nine. He arrived at Emirates Stadium as a 28-year-old Spain international midfielder with more than 200 La Liga appearances and a Euros title to his name. Not once had he played as a striker. But little more than a year on, Merino is a serious contender to be Arsenal's main frontman"
"His latest important goal came in Sunday's 1-1 draw with Chelsea as he again showed his worth as a makeshift striker - a role he first played in February - in the absence of injured trio Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres. Back in February, he came on as a substitute to score twice in a 2-0 win over Leicester - the first time in his professional career"
Mikel Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in August 2024 as a 28-year-old Spain international midfielder with extensive La Liga experience and a Euros title. He had never previously played as a striker but has emerged as a makeshift centre-forward during injury absences, scoring 16 goals in 63 Arsenal appearances. He scored in the 1-1 draw with Chelsea and earlier scored twice after coming on as a substitute versus Leicester, marking his first professional time playing up front. Merino's recent form includes three goals and two assists in his last five games as a striker. Comparisons include Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres.
Read at www.bbc.com
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