By LEWIS BROWNING, SPORTS REPORTER

Published: 22:24, 1 February 2026 | Updated: 22:24, 1 February 2026

Mikel Merino is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Arsenal have confirmed, after the midfielder suffered a serious foot injury.

Merino, 29, has been a key player for Arsenal this season on their title charge, playing 33 times so far and scoring six goals - be that as a midfielder or as a striker covering for injuries.

Now, though, the Gunners will have to do make do for potentially the rest of the season without him, meaning others will likely have to step up.

Arsenal confirmed on Sunday that the midfielder would be heading for surgery, but did not put a timeframe on his return. It is speculated that Merino may have been dealt a fractured foot.

'Mikel will have surgery in the coming days and will then begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme,' a club statement read.

'Mikel is expected to be out of action for an extended period, with the aim of returning to full training before the end of...