Arteta Confirms: New Signing Merino Suffers Shoulder Fracture in First Training Session, Set to Miss Several Weeks

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta revealed during Friday’s press conference that the club’s newly signed midfielder, Mikel Merino, unfortunately suffered a shoulder injury during his first training session with the team and will be out of action for several weeks.

Merino had transferred from La Liga club Real Sociedad to Arsenal and was seen as a significant addition to strengthen the midfield. However, during his first training session with his new teammates, a collision with defender Gabriel led to this unexpected injury.

Arteta expressed regret at the press conference: “The incident that occurred during yesterday’s training is very disappointing. Merino showed great enthusiasm upon joining the team and everything was progressing positively. Unfortunately, during a fall, Gabriel accidentally landed on his shoulder, causing a minor fracture.”

While the exact duration of his absence is yet to be fully assessed, Merino will clearly miss this weekend’s Premier League match against Brighton. Arteta added: “He is currently experiencing significant pain, and we will arrange further detailed examinations for him so that we can provide a more accurate timeline for his recovery.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal is also monitoring the health status of other players. Although forward Jesus’ calf injury has ruled him out of the game against Brighton, Arteta stated that Jesus is recovering well and has already begun high-intensity rehabilitation training, with the club hoping he can return to the pitch soon.