“Mikel Merino knows the business and Mikel Arteta knows the chemistry”: Arsenal's solution to striker crisis

Mikel Merino might have provided the solution to Arsenal's striker problems. (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

Mikel Arteta and Arsenal are going through a period of crisis as they have no natural striker fit to play in their squad, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both out for the remainder of the season.

In this situation of crisis, The Gunners boss decided to deploy Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker and the decision worked wonders.

The Spaniard scored a quick-fire brace against Leicester City and rescued three massive points for the team as they narrowed down the gap between them and Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

Arsenal were not able to create any sort of threat with Raheem Sterling in the No. 9., as a result of which Arteta decided to try out Merino in the No. 9 role.

Mikel Merino's aerial ability allowed the Arsenal players to ping crosses into the box, which resulted in goals for them against Leicester City.

The 28-year-old displayed a typical “fox in the box” instinct against Leicester and proved the versatility Arteta needed desperately.

Ethan Nwaneri: The new attacking weapon in Mikel Arteta's game plan

With Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz out due to injuries, teenager Ethan Nwaneri has been given the responsibility of producing chances for the Gunners.

The 17-year-old has established himself as a regular starter this season, showcasing his immense versatility, making 24 appearances for the club, and already registering 7 goals and 1 assist.

Nwaneri has cemented himself as a motivator on the pitch, demanding more from his teammates and pushing them to be better, despite his young age.

Mikel Arteta has backed the young lad since day one, and now he is reaping the fruits, as the Hale End graduate is coming up clutch for the Gunners in their time of crisis.

Ethan Nwaneri has been phenomenal for Arsenal this season. (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

Former Manchester City defender and pundit, Micah Richards, also praised the youngster for his consistent displays this season.

In a post-match show recently, Richards said, "Oh, he's dazzling, isn't it? Scintillating. The way he moves, his confidence, his left foot.” (sic)

He further added, "I mean, we've eulogised about Saka many, many times, but he's really come to the fore at the right time. What a player. 17 years of age. His technique. He was the best player on the pitch by far. You know, all he was missing was a goal, really.” (sic)