Merino’s brace fires Arsenal to vital win at Leicester

Arsenal moved within four points of Premier League leaders Liverpool as substitute Mikel Merino scored two late goals to secure a crucial victory over struggling Leicester City at the King Power Stadium.

Mikel Arteta’s side looked set to squander a golden opportunity to keep pace in the title race, struggling to break down Leicester’s defence. But with his attacking options depleted due to injuries, Arteta turned to Spain midfielder Merino as a makeshift striker in the closing stages—a decision that proved decisive.

Merino netted twice in the final nine minutes, extending Arsenal’s unbeaten league run to 15 matches and keeping them firmly in the hunt for the Premier League title.

The Gunners returned to action after a two-week break—following their League Cup semi-final defeat to Newcastle and an early FA Cup exit—with a much-needed win. Their title hopes remain alive, though Liverpool can restore a seven-point lead if they defeat Wolves at Anfield on Sunday.

Injury Woes and Attacking Shortages

Arsenal’s forward options were severely limited, with Kai Havertz ruled out for the season due to a hamstring injury suffered in training. The blow came just weeks after the club failed to sign Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins in the January transfer window.

Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli were also sidelined, forcing Arteta to deploy Leandro Trossard as a central striker. With 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri and the out-of-form Raheem Sterling flanking him, Arsenal’s attack looked makeshift at best.

Leicester’s Struggles Deepen

While Arsenal celebrated a vital win, Leicester’s struggles continued. The Foxes’ home crowd voiced their discontent with chants and protests against the club’s hierarchy, highlighting ongoing unrest as their battle for survival intensifies.