Arsenal Star Merino Out for Surgery, Saka's Fitness in Doubt

Injuries to key players raise concerns over Arsenal's season prospects

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:50am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented and overlapping shapes in Arsenal's team colors, representing the disruption caused by injuries to key players.Arsenal's midfield depth is tested as key players Merino and Saka face injury concerns, forcing the club to explore emergency loan options.Leeds Today

Arsenal has confirmed that midfielder Mikel Merino will undergo surgery for a foot injury, sidelining him for an extended period. This news comes as the club also faces growing uncertainty over the fitness of star player Bukayo Saka, who was absent from the recent Leeds match. With two of their key players potentially out, Arsenal must now navigate a challenging period and explore the transfer market for potential loan signings before the deadline.

Why it matters

Merino and Saka are crucial players for Arsenal, and their absences could significantly impact the team's performance and chances of success this season. The club's depth will be tested, and their ability to adapt and find suitable replacements will be crucial in determining whether Arsenal's season can stay on track.

The details

Mikel Merino suffered a bone injury in his right foot during Arsenal's 3-2 defeat to Manchester United last week. The club has confirmed that Merino will undergo surgery in the coming days and is expected to be out of action for an extended period. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka was notably absent from the recent 4-0 victory over Leeds after pulling up during the warm-up. Manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that the extent of Saka's injury is still unknown.

  • Merino sustained the injury during Arsenal's match against Manchester United on January 25.
  • Merino will undergo surgery in the coming days.
  • Saka was absent from Arsenal's match against Leeds on April 8.

The players

Mikel Merino

An Arsenal midfielder who has been sidelined due to a foot injury that will require surgery.

Bukayo Saka

A key Arsenal player whose fitness is in doubt after he was absent from the team's recent match against Leeds.

Mikel Arteta

The manager of Arsenal FC, who has provided updates on the injuries to Merino and Saka.

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What they’re saying

“Following a foot injury sustained in the closing moments of our match against Manchester United on January 25, further assessments and specialist consultations have confirmed that Mikel Merino has a bone injury in his right foot. He will undergo surgery in the coming days and will subsequently begin his recovery and rehabilitation program.”

— Arsenal FC

“We don't know yet.”

— Mikel Arteta, Manager, Arsenal FC

What’s next

With Merino out for an extended period and Saka's fitness in doubt, Arsenal must explore the transfer market for potential loan signings before the Monday, 7 PM deadline. Finding suitable cover at such short notice could prove challenging for the club.

The takeaway

The injuries to Merino and Saka are a significant blow to Arsenal's season, as these two players are crucial to the team's success. The club's depth will be tested, and their ability to adapt and find suitable replacements will be crucial in determining whether Arsenal can maintain their momentum and achieve their goals this season.