Arsenal’s Merino sidelined for Chelsea semi-final after foot injury

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed a significant injury blow ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea, with midfielder Mikel Merino set for surgery on a foot injury.

Mikel Merino ruled out for Arsenal ahead of crucial Chelsea Cup clash

Merino missed Arsenal’s 4-0 Premier League win at Leeds United last weekend, an absence initially thought to be tactical.

Arteta has now revealed the £31.6 million summer signing sustained a rare foot problem, describing the loss as “a big blow” for his squad.

“He needs to go through a procedure,” Arteta stated in his pre-match press conference.

“He’s a big player for us, a player that has such versatility and capacity to compete in various positions.”

The manager added that the club must monitor Merino’s recovery following the operation before establishing a timeline for his return.

In more positive news, forward Bukayo Saka could be available for the Emirates Stadium clash.

Saka, who suffered a hip issue during the warm-up at Leeds, has responded well to treatment.

“It doesn’t look like something too serious,” Arteta said, while acknowledging a final decision on his fitness is pending.

Saka’s replacement at Leeds, Noni Madueke, seized his opportunity with a goal and an assist in a man-of-the-match performance.

The 23-year-old, who previously played for Chelsea, is now in strong contention to start against his former club regardless of Saka’s availability.

The injury news arrives before a high-stakes London derby. Arsenal holds a narrow 3-2 lead from the first leg at Stamford Bridge but will be wary of Chelsea’s threat.

A victory or a draw would see the Gunners advance to their first domestic cup final since 2020, when they defeated Chelsea in the FA Cup final.

Arteta’s side must now navigate this critical fixture without the versatile Merino as they aim to secure a Wembley final berth.