Paul Merson believes Mikel Arteta must make a key change to Arsenal’s lineup for their Champions League clash with PSV, as he struggles to understand the manager’s recent selections.
The Gunners travel to Eindhoven on Tuesday for the first leg of their last-16 tie, aiming to gain an advantage ahead of next week’s return fixture. However, Arsenal faces a tough challenge due to the absence of key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz.
As a result, Mikel Merino has recently been used as a makeshift striker, scoring twice against Leicester City before leading the line in matches against West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
But former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson insists Merino should not start against PSV. Speaking to Sky Sports, he suggested an alternative “lively” forward who should take his place.
“This would have been an ideal draw for Arsenal with a full squad, but without their attacking firepower, I don’t see them dominating PSV. It’s turned into a tricky tie,” Merson said.
“Arsenal have failed to score in their last two games, and against Leicester—who have been conceding goals easily—they only found the net in the final 10 minutes.
“I really hope Arteta stops using Mikel Merino as a striker. I just can’t understand that decision. Yes, he scored twice against Leicester, but they’re not exactly a strong side.
“I would start Raheem Sterling up front instead. He’s energetic, and defenders would find it much easier to handle Merino, who isn’t a natural centre-forward. At least Sterling has experience playing there.”
Merson also warned that the tie is far from a guaranteed victory for Arsenal. “It’s going to be a dangerous game. I expect Arsenal to progress, but it’s not as straightforward as it once seemed. I can see this one going the distance.”
Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal continued with their second consecutive goalless Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday. However, despite their attacking concerns, Arteta has defended his decision to play Merino as a No. 9.
“In relation to the opposition and the options we have, yes, he can still play there,” Arteta said. “Attacking players rely heavily on what the team creates, the chemistry, and how we link up. It worked well against Leicester, but in the last game, a lot was missing.”
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