Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta claimed that both Ben White and Mikel Merino were unavailable for selection in the midweek clash against Crystal Palace. They were absent from the squad due to fitness concerns. The pair were ruled out ahead of the fixture. Thus, dealing a blow to Arsenal’s squad depth during a crucial stretch of the season.
The absence of Ben White and Mikel Merino is a significant concern for Arsenal. This happened especially when the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain looming on Tuesday. With such a high-stakes fixture ahead, the Gunners will be hoping both players recover in time to bolster the squad for one of their biggest games of the season.
What really happened with the Arsenal duo?
Both Mikel Merino and Ben White featured in Arsenal’s dominant 4-0 win over Ipswich, but manager Mikel Arteta has since revealed that the duo faced some problems following the match. Their setbacks have now ruled them out of the clash against Crystal Palace. Thus, raising concerns about their availability for the crucial Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain next week.
As a result of their respective fitness issues, both Mikel Merino and Ben White were left out of Arsenal’s matchday squad for their Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace. Their absence comes at a critical time. The Gunners are going to face a packed schedule and a high-stakes Champions League semi-final on the horizon.
The Gunners need to improvise without Merino and White
Arsenal are likely to remain confident despite Ben White’s absence, thanks to the impressive performances of Jurrien Timber at right-back this season. The Dutch defender has been stepping up consistently when called upon. Thereby, showcasing both defensive solidity and attacking support, making him a reliable alternative as the Gunners navigate this crucial phase of the campaign.
However, the potential absence of Mikel Merino would be a major setback for Arsenal. The Spanish midfielder has been in exceptional form after transitioning into a striking role in recent months. Thus, delivering goals and consistent performances at a crucial time for the club. Losing him now would deal a significant blow to Mikel Arteta’s attacking options heading into a vital stretch of fixtures.
Mikel Merino was one of Arsenal’s standout performers during their Champions League quarter-final triumph over Real Madrid. The Spaniard played a pivotal role across both legs, scoring one goal and providing two crucial assists. These contributions helped them guide the Gunners into the semi-finals. His contributions have underlined just how vital he’s become to Mikel Arteta’s setup in recent months.
Mikel Merino’s potential absence comes at the worst possible time for Arsenal. Since the team prepares for one of its most critical fixtures in recent history—the Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain. His recent transformation into a reliable goalscoring threat has added a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Thus, replacing his presence will be no easy task. While Arteta has options to fillup the void left by Ben White in defense, Arteta may have to explore tactical adjustments or rely on less proven options up front to fill the void left by Merino. With the stakes higher than ever, the Gunners face a real test of squad depth and resilience in the days ahead.
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