7M - Mikel Arteta Eyes Reinforcements for Arsenal Following Merino's Injury

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has acknowledged that the club may need to enter the transfer market after confirming that midfielder Mikel Merino sustained an unusual fracture in his right foot, requiring surgery and casting significant doubt over the remainder of his season.

Merino suffered the injury during last week's defeat to Manchester United, ruling him out of the subsequent Champions League fixture against Kairat Almaty and the league win over Leeds United. The club has officially stated that the Spanish international will undergo an operation and faces a lengthy absence, though there remains hope for a return before the season concludes.

"This is a significant setback," Arteta stated in a press conference. "We are hopeful for a positive outcome, but surgery is always a concerning step. He is a crucial player for us." The manager described the injury as "very uncommon" and confirmed it would be closely managed.

With Merino—a consistent selection for Spain's national team coach Luis de la Fuente—now sidelined, Arteta admitted Arsenal must assess their options before the imminent closure of the winter transfer window.

"My day today will be busier than usual," the Spanish coach added. "When you lose a key player while competing across four tournaments, you must explore every avenue to see if a solution is available. If not, we will proceed with the squad we have."