Arsenal fans are urging Mikel Arteta to rethink his system after Mikel Merino scored a hat-trick for Spain against Turkey.
Fans want Arsenal to give Merino more starts
Spain’s 6-0 demolition of Turkey had plenty of highlights, but it was Mikel Merino who stole the show. The midfielder struck three times in style. He linked up with Martin Zubimendi in midfield and proving clinical when it mattered most.
His opener came from a slick passing move, his second arrived just before the break with a weaker-foot finish. The third was pure class, a rocket from outside the box that left the keeper rooted. With Barcelona’s Pedri and Ferran Torres also on the scoresheet, Spain’s midfield dominance was clear.
But for Arsenal fans, the bigger story was Merino’s spark in front of goal, something the Gunners have often lacked.
Calls for a tactical switch at Gunners
Mikel Arteta’s 4-3-3 has been his trademark since taking charge. But, fans now see Merino as more than just a midfield engine. Many want him tried as a striker alongside Viktor Gyokeres in a 4-4-2. That is especially with the Swede possibly sidelined by off-field issues later this season.
Some fans even suggest Merino could lead the line on his own if needed. They are pointing to his finishing touch and aerial presence as reasons to risk on the change. It’s a bold shout, but Gunners’ fans know that one tactical tweak can sometimes unlock a new weapon.
Merino finished the chances with the confidence of a natural forward. So, the fans believe Arteta might just have a wildcard on his hands.
Author’s Opinion:
Merino isn’t a striker by trade, but his Spain hat-trick shows he can be lethal in advanced areas. Whether Arteta risks shaking up his trusted system is another question. But, the fans’ call makes sense. Arsenal could use that extra edge.
