Multiple media outlets report that Mikel Merino, the Spanish midfielder sidelined with a stress fracture, will undergo surgery on Monday, with an expected four-month layoff that rules him out for the rest of the season. Several Spanish media sources state that Merino is set to return at the end of the season and hopes to represent Spain at the World Cup.
Spanish media report that although Arsenal has not set a specific return timeline for Merino, he is expected to resume training at the end of the season. He hopes to help Arsenal in the final stages of the season and also earn a spot in Spain’s World Cup squad. If fit, he will play an important role in Luis de la Fuente’s tactical system.
Spanish media add that Mikel Arteta plans to get Merino back in action for Arsenal before the season ends, allowing him to regain match fitness in the final weeks. If this plan comes to fruition, it would be reasonable and not impossible for Merino to be included in de la Fuente’s World Cup squad, and he is expected to be a key player for the Spanish national team.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Canada-Mexico-USA will kick off on June 11. Spain are drawn in the same group as Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, with their group stage opener on June 15.
