Bukayo Saka reacts to Arsenal teammate's message after 'hidden gem' claim
03/21/2025 03:55 PM
Bukayo Saka joined several Arsenal teammates in praising a standout performer following their impressive display during the international break.
Arsenal have been without their star winger since December, yet the club opted against signing a replacement in the January transfer window.
Frustrated Arsenal supporters have pointed the blame at Stan Kroenke and the board for failing to strengthen the squad, as Arsenal's Premier League title challenge has faltered in recent weeks.
They currently sit 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool, and another trophyless season looks increasingly likely.
Injuries have only compounded their struggles, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
Despite these setbacks, Mikel Merino has stepped up in an unfamiliar role, filling in as a makeshift striker and scoring four goals in the last month. Merino’s performances have led some to describe him as a "hidden gem" in Arsenal's squad playing in that striker role.
Mikel Merino links up with Arsenal target Nico Williams for Spain
Merino's recent scoring streak hasn't been limited to club football, as he's now finding the net for Spain as well.
The midfielder was on target in Spain's 2-2 draw with the Netherlands on 20 March, tapping in after Nico Williams' shot was parried into his path.
After the match, Merino took to Instagram to share his excitement, writing: "Everything will be decided in Valencia!! Let's go team!"
His post was met with plenty of appreciation from teammates, including Saka, Declan Rice, and fellow Spaniard David Raya, who all liked the post.
Williams has been heavily linked with Arsenal ahead of a potential summer transfer, and seeing him combine with Merino on the international stage will only add to fans' excitement.
Merino's first season with the Gunners has been mixed. He has made just 12 Premier League starts, but with injuries piling up, he has been handed an unexpected opportunity to lead the line in attack.
| Season statistics | Mikel Merino |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Starts | 20 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Yellow cards | 3 |
Arsenal make Alexander Isak their top striker target
Despite Merino's recent role as a makeshift striker, the Gunners are widely expected to sign a centre-forward in the summer following their attacking woes this season.
Football Insider has revealed that Newcastle's Alexander Isak is the Arsenal’s priority target, and a front three of Saka, Isak, and Williams would undoubtedly be one of the most exciting in the Premier League.
As for Merino, he has a free run at the striker role for now, and if he can keep finding the net, it will only benefit Arsenal for the rest of the season.
The post Bukayo Saka reacts to Arsenal teammate's message after 'hidden gem' claim appeared first on Football Insider.
