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Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in Arsenal’s win over Chelsea on Sunday afternoon, perfectly glancing in a header from a Martin Odegaard corner.
The Spaniard rose highest at the near post to give the Gunners the lead, and they saw the game out with a resolute defensive display against the Blues.
The strike was Merino’s fourth in seven games as a number nine, as he continues to grow accustomed to the striker role.
Gabriel Martinelli impressed on the day himself but was quick to congratulate his match-winning teammate after the game with a glowing comparison.
Gabriel Martinelli compares Mikel Merino to Ronaldo
Merino saved the day for Arsenal away at Leicester in mid-February, and since then, Mikel Arteta has decided that the Euro 2024 winner is his primary striker.
The imposing midfielder has adapted to his new role relatively well, and secured the Gunners all three points against their bitter rivals at the Emirates on Sunday.
Posting on Instagram after the game, Merino shared a picture of him celebrating in front of the North Bank, with the caption, “London Derby”.
Commenting on the post, Martinelli wrote: “R9”.
Clearly a somewhat tongue-in-cheek response, Merino certainly deserves some recognition for his ability to improve in a role he’s never played in before.
While he’s not producing anywhere near what the great Brazilian Ronaldo was able to produce, he’s get better at certain striker facets in recent weeks, such as his hold-up play with his back to goal and the timing of his runs in behind.
Mikel Merino’s statistics vs Chelsea
Providing a genuine goal threat in the box in this game, Merino was also secure in possession.
Typically a midfielder who completes a low percentage of his passes, he finished the game with a 91% pass accuracy, successfully retaining possession in difficult areas.
| Merino’s Statistics vs Chelsea | |
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Shots | 2 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Expected Goals | 0.17 |
| Accurate Passes | 10/11 (91%) |
| Touches | 22 |
| Touches in Opposition Box | 5 |
| Tackles Won | 1/2 (50%) |
All Statistics via FotMob – correct as of 17/03/2025
While he was still somewhat peripheral, managing just 22 touches throughout the 90 minutes, he was efficient and impactful when he was involved.
Still certainly not an ideal solution, but Merino is starting to provide value as a striker…CONTINUE READING>>
