£32m new signing Mikel Merino has had a nightmare start to life at Arsenal after suffering a bizarre injury in training.

Euro 2024 champion just joined ArsenalExpected to be released this weekendInjured due to collision with teammate

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WHAT HAPPENED?

The Spain international, who helped his country to Euro 2024 glory, was hoping for a smooth start at the Emirates Stadium, with Mikel Arteta recruiting his compatriot as an option to add to his elite midfield in north London.

THE BIG PICTURE

However, Merino will have to delay his Premier League debut for the Gunners due to a fitness issue. The 28-year-old suffered an injury in training, with Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes accidentally colliding with his new team-mate.

 

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WHAT DID COACH ARTETA SAY?

Arteta told reporters about Merino’s immediate exclusion: “It’s unfortunate. He has a shoulder injury and it looks like he will be out for a few weeks. He fell to the floor and Gabi fell on him, it could be a fracture.”

 

WHAT IS THE FUTURE LIKE?

Arsenal, title contenders with six points from their opening two games of the 2024-25 season, host Brighton on Saturday. Merino will not be involved in that game, and it is not yet clear when he will be allowed to make his English debut.