Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has had a rather eventful start to his career at the Emirates.
Having dislocated his shoulder in his first training session, he has subsequently gone on to start 3 of the last 4 Premier League matches.
It has been a baptism of fire for Merino and, while some supporters on X are not convinced by his performances so far, others believe he needs more time to settle in:
Massively off the pace but has the attributes we need
Was always going to take time, we play so much faster than La Liga/Spanish NT
— Jack Devonport (@Devonport_Jack) November 12, 2024
Needs time but not up to par so far. Not press resistant or technical enough to build up play or breakdown low blocks
— Michael (@AFCMichaelT) November 12, 2024
He's getting there slowly. 👍🏻
— Royston Sanders (@RDSanders007) November 13, 2024
Getting better. Think we were a bit harsh on him. Confident he’ll come good and will be a massive asset for us
— TattedGooner❤️🤍🇧🇷🏴🇫🇷🇳🇴🇪🇸 (@TattedGooner) November 13, 2024
He's trying, but he hasn't really impressed me personally, he giving me the Dani Ceballos vibe
— D'Hood Bros (@AfcHood) November 12, 2024
Too early to judge, but he's definitely settling in quite well!
— James Chelsea (@JamesKumenda) November 12, 2024
Merino needs to adapt quickly
The pace of English football can take some getting used to for new signings from abroad. However, it shouldn’t be forgotten that the Spanish international has played in the Premier League before, having spent a season with Newcastle.
After being in La Liga for the last six years, though, Merino may need time to readjust, although the adaptation period should still be pretty quick.
Arsenal need more goals and assists from midfield
With Declan Rice having failed to score in the Premier League so far this season and Thomas Partey not exactly that prolific in the final third either, there is a lot of pressure on Martin Odegaard to produce the goods on his return to fitness.
However, Merino could lighten the load. He bagged 8 goals and contributed 5 assists for Real Sociedad last campaign, and he has already scored once for the Gunners. If the 28-year-old can offer a threat to the opposition goal on a regular basis, he could end up being a very shrewd purchase.
Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
