New Arsenal star Mikel Merino has suffered an immediate injury setback with the Gunners.
The Spanish international was introduced to his new teammates after completing a midweek €32.5m transfer from Real Sociedad.
The switch wrapped up weeks of negotiations between the clubs with Arsenal determined secure a deal for the 28-year-old.
Mikel Arteta wants to add athleticism and goals to his midfield and Merino fills the profile he is looking for.
However, Merino has endured a major setback after suffering a shoulder injury in training, and Arteta confirmed he will miss this weekend’s Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion.
“It’s very unfortunate. Yesterday he had a collision and has got a shoulder injury. It looks like he’s going to be out for a few weeks”, as per reports from BBC Sport.
“He was really excited and everything was looking really good. He landed on the floor and Gabriel landed on top of him, it looks like a small fracture.”
Arteta’s update is also reflected in the Spain squad for next month’s UEFA Nations League games with Merino ruled out.
Arsenal will carry out further tests on the injury in the coming days. but he is a doubt for their first game back after the international break, at arch rivals Tottenham on September 15.
