Why are Arsenal fans unhappy with Mikel Arteta's lineup against Aston Villa?

Fans are unhappy because Mikel Arteta chose to start Mikel Merino as a striker instead of Viktor Gyökeres, a natural forward.

Has Mikel Merino always played as a striker for Arsenal?

No, Mikel Merino had never played as a No. 9 before this season but has been filling in effectively due to injuries.

What has Mikel Arteta said about Mikel Merino's striker role?

Arteta stated that Merino's performances have earned him consideration for the striker position, even when other forwards are fit.

Home / Sports / Gunners Divided: Merino Up Front, Fans Want Gyökeres

Gunners Divided: Merino Up Front, Fans Want Gyökeres

6 Dec

•

Summary

Fans question Mikel Arteta's decision to start Mikel Merino at striker.
Mikel Merino has impressed in a makeshift striker role, scoring goals.
Supporters believe summer signing Viktor Gyökeres should have started.

Gunners Divided: Merino Up Front, Fans Want Gyökeres

Arsenal fans have voiced their displeasure on social media platform X regarding Mikel Arteta's selection of Mikel Merino as the starting striker for their Premier League match against Aston Villa. The decision saw the versatile Merino deployed in a central attacking role, with recent acquisition Viktor Gyökeres named among the substitutes. This tactical choice has ignited debate among supporters who feel Gyökeres, a natural forward, should have been given the start.

Mikel Arteta, however, has defended Merino's inclusion in the striking position, noting the midfielder's impressive form and impact. Merino, who had not previously played as a No. 9 before joining Arsenal, has netted nine goals in his debut campaign, stepping in effectively for injured forwards. Arteta indicated that Merino's performances have earned him a continued role in consideration for the striker position, regardless of other forwards' fitness.