Mikel Merino
ARSSpain
Left
Jun 22, 1996
29
6'2"
183 lb
CM
CF
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Questionable for final match
Merino (foot) completed a light session Thursday and is set to begin training with the group Friday, leaving his availability for Sunday's season finale against Crystal Palace uncertain, according to coach Mikel Arteta. "Mikel is going to start to train with the group tomorrow, today he's done a little bit, it was just a very light session obviously."
Analysis: Merino had been ruled out of the previous fixture against West Ham as he continued his recovery from a long-term foot injury, making his return to collective training an encouraging development. The Spanish midfielder's primary target remains the Champions League final against PSG on May 30, with the club managing his comeback carefully to ensure he is fully available for the Budapest showdown. His involvement in Sunday's league finale will depend on how he responds to Friday's session, though getting him fit for the European showpiece remains the clear priority for coach Mikel Arteta.
Remains out
Merino (foot) is nearing a return but out for Sunday's match against West Ham, according to manager Mikel Arteta. "No chance for the weekend, there's still a fair bit to do [in their recoveries]."
Analysis: Merino is not yet ready for action despite his boost in fitness over the past few weeks, as the midfielder will instead remain out and in recovery. He will now be left with three games to make a return this campaign, with two league matches followed by the UCL final. His best bet is to wait until the UCL final for a return and focus on recovery until then, especially with the World Cup ahead for him.
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