Arsenal's Mikel Merino near first‑team return after foot surgery

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino is accelerating his recovery after foot surgery and is expected to rejoin the first‑team squad soon.

Merino’s return matters because Arsenal is locked in a tight Premier League title race, and his creativity in midfield has been missing from the lineup. The club has relied on a makeshift midfield combination that has struggled to control games against top‑six rivals.

The injury occurred during Arsenal’s 3‑2 loss to Manchester United, when Merino suffered a rare foot fracture that required immediate medical attention. Club doctors confirmed the diagnosis and recommended surgery to prevent long‑term complications. The setback forced him out of the squad in early January, sidelining him for a substantial portion of the campaign.

He underwent surgery in January 2024 ^[2] and has been on a structured rehabilitation program ever since. Since the operation, Merino has missed 19 matches ^[1], a stretch that has tested the squad’s depth and tactical flexibility. Physiotherapists said his gait has returned to normal, and that strength tests are now exceeding 80 percent of pre‑injury levels.

Training reports indicate that Merino is now participating in full‑pitch drills and light scrimmages with the first team. Coaching staff said his increasing stamina and the sharpness of his passing have improved during these sessions. The medical team said it has given a provisional green light for his inclusion in the matchday squad, pending final fitness checks.

Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Bournemouth is being viewed as the likely platform for Merino’s comeback. The manager said the midfielder could be named on the bench, with a chance to earn minutes if the game’s tempo permits. A successful return could provide a tactical boost, and add variety to Arsenal’s attacking options.

Club officials said the focus remains on ensuring Merino is fully fit before he resumes competitive action. They emphasized that his health is the priority, and that any decision will be based on medical clearance rather than schedule pressures.

**What this means** – Merino’s anticipated return injects fresh creativity into an Arsenal side that has been missing his vision and work rate. If he regains form quickly, the midfield could become more balanced, giving the manager additional options as the title race intensifies. Conversely, a rushed comeback could risk re‑injury, so the club’s cautious approach aims to protect both the player and the team’s long‑term ambitions.