Mikel Arteta has been warned that Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino could seek a transfer exit after his World Cup-winning heroics with Spain this summer. Merino played a crucial role off the bench for La Roja, scoring match-winning goals against Portugal and Belgium to help secure their second World Cup trophy.
Merino's Impact at World Cup
The 28-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for £28 million in 2024, has emerged as a versatile option for the Gunners, deployed as a midfielder and occasionally as a makeshift striker. However, an ankle injury in January cut his league season short, limiting him to just 10 starts and 12 substitute appearances last campaign.
Mendieta's Warning
Former Spanish midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes Merino may consider a move away from the Emirates if he does not secure more playing time next season. “Mikel Merino will not enjoy being a bench player at Arsenal,” Mendieta told BetVictor. “It works in the national team because of his specific role and recent goals, which makes things easier for everyone. However, he is an ambitious player who wants to be in the starting lineup. If he isn’t, he may look elsewhere.”
Mendieta added: “The national team is different, with roles for players like Oyarzabal or Borja Iglesias. In a club setting, you don’t want to be the 12th man who only comes on when goals are needed. He wants to play regularly.”
Merino's Own Words
Speaking during the World Cup, Merino insisted he remained “happy” at Arsenal and was not looking too far into the future. “I’m calm, I’m happy there, they make me feel as part of the family at the club,” he told COPE. “I’m not thinking much more than that. I’m old, so I’m making the most of every day and not looking beyond that.”
Asked about his role as a substitute for club and country, Merino said: “Well, it’s as best we can. We’re all competitive, and if we’re at the top, it’s because we’re people who know they’re very good and can contribute at any time. We all see ourselves as starters in our minds; it’s another thing entirely how we accept the role we’re given. If you’re going to complain about being a substitute, this isn’t the team for you, and it’s not your national team. That’s why it’s considered an exemplary squad, because it’s very difficult to be here, to be a substitute, or to get a few minutes and perform as well as the players who come on.”
Arsenal's Midfield Plans
Merino could face increased competition for minutes at club level, as Arsenal are keen to bolster their midfield options this summer. The Gunners had an approach for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott turned down in June and are still exploring a deal for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.
Merino will return to Arsenal in the coming weeks as the Gunners prepare to defend their Premier League title. His future at the club remains uncertain, with the possibility of a transfer exit looming if his playing time does not increase.
