What can Arsenal expect from new signing Mikel Merino?

3. Ability to control games off the bench

There is a talented group of players at Arteta's disposal, and Merino may not be starting week in week out as a result, although his potential impact off the bench will be particularly serviceable.

Defensively, Arsenal were superb last term, but a few cracks have surfaced at the start of 2024/25. Thomas Partey does not provide optimal security, and as the season progresses, there is always the possibility of Gunners dropping deeper and ceding control. Teams may become desperate if they're chasing a goal or, more rarely, Arsenal may be forced to defend with ten as was the case recently against Brighton.

The prospect of bringing a profile like Merino into the fold during such a scenario could be useful in helping the team keep shape and hold on to a result. The former Newcastle midfielder aids Arsenal's ability to dominate physically in midfield and retain possession under pressure.

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