Arsenal have confirmed Mikel Merino will undergo foot surgery, with growing concerns the midfielder could miss the rest of the season.
Arsenal have confirmed that midfielder Mikel Merino will undergo surgery on a foot injury, raising serious concerns that his season may already be over. The Spanish international has been ruled out for an extended period as the club prepares for a crucial run-in across competitions, including their second leg clash against Chelsea in the EFL Cup.
Merino was absent from Arsenal’s weekend victory over Leeds United, with the club initially offering limited details on the nature of the injury. However, further medical assessments have now revealed the full extent of the issue, prompting the decision to proceed with surgery.
In an official statement, Arsenal explained that Merino sustained the injury late in their match against Manchester United on January 25. Subsequent specialist reviews confirmed a bone injury in his right foot, leaving surgery as the only viable option for recovery.
The club added that Merino will undergo the procedure in the coming days before beginning an extensive rehabilitation programme. While Arsenal have not set a definitive timeline for his return, they acknowledged he is expected to be sidelined for a significant period.
Arteta provides updates on Saka and Merino ahead of our Carabao Cup clash 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 2, 2026
Although the stated aim is for Merino to return to full training before the end of the season, there are growing fears internally that the midfielder may struggle to feature again in competitive action this campaign.
Merino addressed the situation himself in a heartfelt message on Instagram, describing the injury as an unexpected challenge. He expressed confidence in Arsenal’s medical team and vowed to return stronger, despite the frustrating timing of the setback. The 27-year-old also thanked supporters for their messages of encouragement, insisting their backing means everything to him.
Arsenal will immediately feel Merino’s absence as they face Chelsea in the EFL Cup. Arsenal go into the second leg with a 3-2 advantage, and with the second leg being played at the Emirates, the Gunners will feel their fans can power them through the fixture.
💬 “Tomorrow we have a beautiful night together again to make something special.”
Arteta on tomorrow’s opportunity in N5 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 2, 2026
Arteta will, however, need to find a solution to Merino’s absence as soon as possible. The Gunners recently explored the possibility of signing Sandro Tonali as a replacement, but Newcastle quickly shut it down, saying that the midfielder isn’t for sale. Arteta has admitted that he would have a busy day looking for a replacement as the transfer window will soon close, but there is hope that a solution can be found as soon as possible.
