Thierry Henry has identified an Arsenal player who is currently underperforming compared to his teammates, a situation that has come under sharper focus after their disappointing loss to Bournemouth.
The defeat has dealt a blow to Arsenal’s title ambitions, with many now concerned about whether certain players are stepping up in the high-pressure moments of the season.
Emmanuel Petit has also weighed in on this discussion, pointing out that some players are not living up to expectations.
One of those players is the recent summer signing, Mikel Merino.
Merino’s performance has raised eyebrows, especially in the wake of William Saliba’s red card, which only compounded Arsenal’s problems during their loss.
Although Saliba’s suspension will not affect Arsenal’s European fixtures this week, with him still available for those matches, the team is still feeling the pressure of missing key contributors.
Martin Ødegaard remains on the sidelines with injury, and Bukayo Saka has been struggling for form, further highlighting the need for other players, including Merino, to step up.
Petit, speaking on Premier League Productions, specifically mentioned Merino’s difficulties in adapting to the demands of English football.
He acknowledged that the transition from La Liga to the Premier League can be challenging for many players.
“In Spain, players tend to have more time on the ball, but the Premier League requires quick thinking and faster reactions,” Petit explained.
He went on to say that Merino has yet to adjust to the rapid pace and physicality of the English game.
The French legend, however, expressed optimism that Merino has the quality to make this adjustment and become a valuable asset for Arsenal.
Injuries have certainly played a part in Merino’s slow start.
He suffered an early setback that disrupted his integration into the squad.
Nonetheless, as a seasoned international player, expectations are high for him to overcome these challenges and make an impact soon.
Arsenal cannot afford to wait much longer, especially after the recent loss that feels like a pivotal moment in the title race.
Liverpool and Manchester City have both capitalized on Arsenal’s stumble, adding to the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side to bounce back quickly.
For that to happen, Merino will need to settle into the team, adapt to the speed and intensity of the Premier League, and start making a tangible contribution.
His performances in the coming weeks could be crucial in determining how Arsenal’s season unfolds, especially with important fixtures on the horizon.
Henry and Petit both agree that Merino has the talent, but the clock is ticking for him to prove his worth at Arsenal.
