Merino’s Surprise Role as Striker Pays Off for Arteta in Key Away Win
Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, thanks to a late brace from Mikel Merino. The midfielder, unexpectedly deployed as a striker, delivered two quickfire goals (81′, 87′) to ensure the Gunners closed the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to just four points.
Arteta’s Tactical Gamble Pays Off
With both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injuries, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta turned to Leandro Trossard to lead the line. However, a lackluster performance prompted a bold substitution, introducing Merino in an unfamiliar striker role—a decision that proved to be a masterstroke.
“Arteta told me I was going to come in as a striker,” Merino revealed to TNT Sports post-match. “It was a surprise, as it’s the first time in my career I’ve played there. He just told me to play to my strengths, and luckily, I was able to help the team with two goals.”
Merino’s Instant Impact
Merino wasted no time making his mark. The 28-year-old latched onto Ethan Nwaneri’s cross to break the deadlock in the 81st minute before sealing the win six minutes later with a composed finish at the back post.
Before Merino’s introduction, Arsenal struggled to break through Leicester’s defense, but his presence provided a much-needed attacking spark. The victory strengthens Arsenal’s title challenge, keeping them in close pursuit of Liverpool ahead of the Reds’ crucial fixture against Wolves.
Leicester’s Struggles Continue
For Leicester, the defeat further compounds their relegation worries. Despite showing resilience for much of the game, they failed to contain Arsenal’s late surge. The Foxes remain in the bottom three, adding pressure ahead of their next fixtures.
Both teams will now turn their focus to the upcoming showdown at Anfield on Sunday, a match that could significantly impact both ends of the Premier League table.
