Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise onto Mikel Merino for the way he’s performed up front in recent times.

The Spain international arrived at the Emirates Stadium with the reputation of being a hard-working utility man in midfield, but he’s shown some superb finishing when asked to fill in up front.

Merino had a surprisingly good run in the team as a makeshift striker last season, and he filled in there again last night as Viktor Gyokeres was out injured.

Speaking after the game, Arteta singled out Merino for praise for the way he’s done his best to adapt and learn his new role…

Mikel Arteta on Mikel Merino’s performances

? "A joy" – Mikel Arteta in awe of Mikel Merino's adaptation to playing as a striker! ? pic.twitter.com/5ZlwQLdabb

— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) November 5, 2025

Speaking in the video clip above, Arteta described Merino as a joy to work with, and praised his mindset to do his bit to help the team out and make such an impact in a big away game in the Champions League.

“It’s a joy to have him, I always say the same thing,” Arteta said in his post-match press conference.

“It’s his versatility on the pitch,...