Mikel Arteta hits back at Jamie Carragher after criticism of £32m Arsenal star
Mikel Arteta hits back at Jamie Carragher after criticism of £32m Arsenal star
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta disagrees with Jamie Carragher's questions about Gunners star Mikel Merino, defending the Spanish international ahead of the Gunners' Champions League trip to Girona. Merino joined from Real Sociedad over the summer after playing his part in Spain's run to Euro 2024 glory. His start was delayed, though, as he picked up an injury in training before even stepping onto the pitch for his new club.
The 28-year-old has started to find his feet, scoring twice in 15 Premier League outings. Arsenal have continued to drop points in their pursuit of league leaders Liverpool, though, despite being unbeaten in their last 13 games. Earlier this season, Carragher questioned the Gunners' decision to move for Merino in August rather than prioritising another forward, arguing he isn't a game-changer. Arteta, however, has launched a bold defence of the midfielder.
"He’s been quite unfortunate, to be honest, but Mikel’s character is unbelievable," Arteta told reporters ahead of the Girona game. "He’s so determined and now he has some rhythm, some momentum and has had some very good moments in the last few weeks with us.
"Unfortunately he had a little niggle but it was nothing serious, but we play every two and a half days so you miss two matches. He’s fit again and available and it’s great to have him in the team.". The niggle referred to by Arteta is the one that kept Merino out against Wolves. Ethan Nwaneri stepped into central midfield in his team-mate's absence, and Arsenal ground out a 1-0 win in a match which ended 10 vs 10.
