Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has cast significant doubt on the possibility of midfielder Mikel Merino returning to the pitch before the current season concludes. The Spanish international has been sidelined since the beginning of the year after suffering a serious foot injury that required surgical intervention.
Merino's recovery has been a slow and careful process. He took a positive step this week by returning to individual training sessions on Thursday, a development that initially sparked hope among supporters. However, Arteta's latest comments suggest the club is prioritizing the player's long-term health over a rushed comeback.
The injury, which occurred in early 2026, forced Merino to undergo an operation, setting him on a lengthy rehabilitation path. While his return to the training ground is an encouraging milestone, the manager's cautious tone indicates that full fitness and match readiness are still some way off.
Arteta's stance underscores a common dilemma for clubs at the business end of a campaign: whether to risk a key player's future for immediate gain. With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts, the temptation to accelerate Merino's return is understandable, but the medical staff's advice appears to be steering the decision towards patience.
For Merino, the focus remains on completing his rehabilitation without setbacks. The midfielder's quality and influence in Arsenal's engine room have been missed, and a full pre-season with the squad is now seen as the more realistic target for his complete reintegration.
The situation highlights the physical toll of a demanding season and the careful management required for players recovering from significant injuries. Arsenal will continue to monitor Merino's progress closely, but the timeline for his competitive return remains unclear.
Based on reporting from Fútbol.