Mikel Merino set for lengthy period on the sidelines as return date set

It is far from ideal for the Gunners.

After signing from Real Sociedad this summer, Merino was a marquee signing under Mikel Arteta as they looked to bolster their squad ahead of a title charge.

Impressing in the Euro 2024 tournament as Spain were victorious, Merino bagged a priceless last minute header against Germany in the quarter-final.

Earning mass plaudits during the festival of football, Arteta then swooped in late for his man.

Now however, he is set for a prolonged period on the sidelines.

As per Mail Sport, Merino is set to miss close to two months with a fractured shoulder suffered in his first Arsenal training session.

There is hope Merino will have a chance to return after the October international break.