Mikel Arteta has previously stated that weeks, not months, would pass.
After breaking his shoulder during his first-ever Arsenal training session, MIKEL MERINO is expected to be sidelined for TWO MONTHS.
After a clash with Gabriel Magalhaes last week, Merino—who cost £32.6 million—joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad. As a result, he sustained a serious injury.
Mikel Merino is set for two months on the sidelines.
Merino wore a sling as he watched Arsenal vs Brighton on Saturday.
It is anticipated that the 28-year-old will return to action around the middle of October.
Merino was in the stands on Saturday as Arsenal and Brighton tied 1-1.
After his knock, the Spain international was spotted with a sling on.
Although Mikel Arteta had before stated that Merino would miss “weeks” due to the injury, it now seems to be more serious than initially thought.
During his Friday press conference, Arteta stated: “It is regrettable. He was in an accident yesterday and sustained a shoulder injury.
It appears that he might be absent for several weeks. It was his initial meeting.
“Everyone was ecstatic, and everything appeared to be going well, until he fell to the ground and suffered a minor fracture.
“This is the game of football. We have made every effort to accomplish our goals.”
There is reportedly optimism that Merino may be able to make a comeback to the field following the October international break, which concludes on October 15.
Following the international break, Arsenal’s midweek Champions League matches are against Shakhtar Donestk and Bournemouth on October 20.
Declan Rice’s suspension for the Gunners’ forthcoming North London derby has already caused a number of midfield absences.
Rice was given a contentious red card against Brighton at the weekend, therefore he will miss the fierce Spurs match.
Despite this, Arsenal was left short in the middle of the park by the summer exits of Emile Smith Rowe, Fabio Vieira, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Mohamed Elneny.
Arsenal will be without Declan Rice for the North London derby after the international break.
Arsenal have a tricky start to the season