Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed the club has been experimenting with different players in striker positions during training sessions, as the team grapples with an injury crisis in their forward line.
Mikel Merino has emerged as a strong candidate to lead the attack against West Ham this weekend, following his impressive two-goal performance as a substitute striker at Leicester. The midfielder's match-winning brace has given Arteta additional tactical options to consider.
The Gunners are currently facing significant challenges in their attacking department, with both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus sidelined for the remainder of the season. The situation is further complicated by injuries to wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, who are expected to be out for several weeks. In their recent 2-0 victory at the King Power Stadium, Arsenal fielded an improvised front three consisting of Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling.
When questioned about Merino's potential role as a striker, Arteta maintained tactical ambiguity, stating, "No, not him or other players. I want the players when they are on that pitch taking the initiative." The Spanish manager added that the team has been training with various players in forward positions over recent weeks, including academy prospects who are becoming increasingly familiar with the team's system.
Arsenal's next challenge comes this Saturday at the Emirates Stadium, where they face West Ham in a crucial match that could reduce their gap with league leaders Liverpool to just four points. The title race implications extend beyond their own fixture, as Arne Slot's Liverpool side is set to face Manchester City on Sunday in what could prove to be a pivotal weekend for the Premier League championship battle.
