Former Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has heaped praise on current Gunners boss Mikel Arteta for his innovative tactical approach that has transformed midfielder Mikel Merino into an unlikely striking sensation.
Midfield Maestro Turned Goal Machine
Speaking to Italian outlet RSI Sport, Fabregas highlighted Arteta's decision to deploy the £32 million signing as a makeshift centre-forward as a stroke of genius. The tactical switch comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, who face an injury crisis among their attacking players.
Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are all currently sidelined, leaving the North London club without any fit, natural strikers. Rather than panic, Arteta has repeated last season's successful experiment by positioning Merino up front with remarkable results.
The 29-year-old Spanish international demonstrated his newfound prowess by scoring two goals in Arsenal's Champions League victory against Slavia Prague earlier this week. What makes this transformation even more impressive is that Merino had never played as a striker until February of this year.
Remarkable Scoring Record
Since adapting to his unfamiliar role, Merino has produced staggering numbers that would impress even seasoned forwards. In just 17 appearances as a striker, the converted midfielder has racked up nine goals and three assists for the Gunners.
Fabregas, now managing Italian club Como, told RSI Sport: "This is a great move by Mikel, putting Merino up front, who has done really well up front. They're a team that defends very well. This year they've made a leap in quality physically and have conceded three goals all season and zero in the Champions League."
The tactical innovation hasn't just benefited Arsenal. Merino's transformation has also made him unexpectedly prolific on the international stage, where he's scored eight goals in his last eight appearances for Spain.
Title Charge Gathers Pace
Arsenal's impressive form sees them sitting pretty at the Premier League summit, with the opportunity to extend their lead when they travel to face Sunderland on Saturday evening. The Gunners have been in imperious form this season, winning 14 of their 16 matches across all competitions.
Fabregas emphasised the team's defensive solidity, noting: "It says a lot about the solidity of this team. And then up front they have goals, they're hungry, they have quality, they have talent. There are similar things, but perhaps Arsenal is more focused on being solid and going on the counterattack or scoring from set pieces."
The former Arsenal maestro also highlighted the impact of summer signings who have provided Arteta with the depth needed to challenge for major honours. Eberechi Eze, Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori have all strengthened the squad despite current injuries to key players like Martin Odegaard.
Fabregas concluded: "I see a very well-prepared team to face many competitions this year. I see a very structured team, with experience and a lot of quality. They've strengthened really well. Little by little, I'm seeing a team that can make a splash."
As Arsenal continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts, Arteta's tactical flexibility and Merino's surprising transformation could prove decisive in their quest for Premier League and Champions League glory.
