Arsenal star Mikel Merino has confirmed he unintentionally hurt Martín Zubimendi and backs his teammate to make a quick recovery.
On Tuesday, the Gunners secured a 3-0 win over Lille in the Champions League. Mikel Arteta had confirmed Zubimendi and Piero Hincapié suffered setbacks during the post-match session after their league win over Leeds United last weekend.
Merino played a few minutes while the 27-year-old midfielder was an unused substitute against the Whites.
The manager said there will be more clarity about their setbacks after the duo carry out further tests.
Merino on Arsenal teammate’s injury
The 30-year-old started in the north London club’s latest win over Lille. After the match, he spoke to Cadena Ser, where he shared an update about Martín Zubimendi’s injury.
“Nothing, he’s fine. He had a slight ankle issue precisely because of a challenge with me, and if there’s anyone who doesn’t want to hurt ‘Zubi,’ it’s me. But he’s fine, he’s a tough guy and he’ll be back in no time,” he said.
Zubimendi has made eight appearances, and it includes one start in the EFL Cup win over Ipswich Town. The latest injury will only make it more complicated for him to get more minutes.
Earlier this month, the Spain international expressed his disappointment over the limited role with the Premier League winners.
Merino on his own situation and Arsenal’s goals
Mikel Arteta has mainly utilised Mikel Merino as a substitute since he arrived at the north London club from Real Sociedad in 2024.
With a contract expiring in 2028, his father recently left the door open for La Liga return. The 30-year-old now jokes with journalist Manu Carreño, asking him to send a message to the Gunners manager.
When asked if he needs an improved role under Arteta, Merino explained: “Well, hopefully that’s the case, and if you can help, that’s perfect for me (laughs). I also understand the competition, because the squad is incredibly talented, and whoever plays is a welcome problem for the manager.”
“Well, in other years it may have been due to injuries to teammates, other circumstances. In the previous season, I’ve always tried to adapt to what the manager needed. This year [season] won’t be any different. I don’t consider myself a player who can only contribute as a starter, but also as a substitute, or in training, supporting the younger players.”
The World Cup winner insists Arsenal’s ambition is to surpass last season’s success.
“Every season is incredibly demanding. But with what we achieved last year, the Premier League title and the Champions League final, even more so. Doing less than last year isn’t in our plans,” he added.
