Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Arsenal, Champions League, PSG, Football
Ben McCrum
Arsenal fans have had their say on new signing Mikel Merino after his debut appearance during the 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain.
Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad during the summer transfer window on 27 August for a fee reportedly worth up to £31.6m including add-ons.
But before he could play his first game for the club, the Spaniard suffered a freak injury during training after teammate Gabriel landed on top of Merino, injuring his shoulder.
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However, over a month after signing, Merino finally made his debut for Arsenal during their 2-0 win over French champions PSG in the Champions League on Tuesday night, and fans have had their say on his performance.
Merino came on in the 64th minute of the match to replace Thomas Partey in Arsenal's midfield, partnering Declan Rice.
But fans were not impressed with his first appearance for the club, pointing out that he struggled to
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Reacting to his debut on social media platform X, one fan wrote: "Honestly , Merino looks the weakest in that midfield"
Another frustrated fan agreed, writing: "Thomas Partey subbed off. Merino and Rice back at 6 And Arsenal has totally lost control over game."
While one fan joked: "Yeah Merino lol Sociedad sold us a lemon."
However, one fan criticised his peers for judging the midfielder so early into his Arsenal career, writing: "Already seeing morons on twitter saying Merino is a waste of money... Less than 10 mins into his debut after barely touching a ball in a month."
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When he is fully fit, it is expected that Merino will play a big part of Arsenal's season, featuring in most games in all competitions.
The 28-year-old was a key part of Real Sociedad, making 242 appearances for the La Liga side.
Speaking about his new signing when the deal was announced, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said: "Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility. He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now.
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"Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality."