Arsenal Football Club faces a significant challenge for the remainder of the 2025/26 season after learning that midfielder Mikel Merino will be sidelined for four months due to a broken foot. Merino sustained this injury during the match against Manchester United on January 25 and has not played since. The severity of his condition necessitated surgery, which is scheduled for the upcoming Monday. His absence is expected to have a serious impact on the team's dynamics and performance given his unique contributions to the midfield.

Manager Mikel Arteta expressed the disappointment felt within the club following the announcement. He described the situation as a "big blow", emphasizing Merino's vital role within the team structure. With the player out for an extended period, Arteta faces the challenge of reshaping strategies and possibly seeking replacements or adjustments elsewhere in the squad. The manager's insights underline the importance of resilience and teamwork as the Gunners prepare for this difficult phase of the season.

This injury not only affects Arsenal's tactical plans but also puts pressure on other team members to step up and fill the gap left by Merino. As the season progresses, the club will need to maintain its competitive edge without one of its key players, raising questions about how the absence will influence performance in upcoming games. Fans will be concerned about whether the squad depth is sufficient to sustain their ambitions in a challenging league environment, particularly against strong opponents.