Arsenal fans name the shock player that Mikel Arteta needs to build his team around after a historic performance vs Brentford
Arsenal fans name the shock player that Mikel Arteta needs to build his team around after a historic performance vs Brentford.
In a thrilling 3-1 victory over Brentford, Arsenal fans were treated to a performance that has sparked widespread excitement and discussion. The Gunners not only sealed a crucial three points, but also witnessed a standout display from an unexpected hero—Mikel Merino. The Spanish midfielder, who has often been overshadowed by more high-profile players, emerged as one of the driving forces behind the victory, with a memorable goal and an all-around performance that has left many supporters calling for Mikel Arteta to build his team around him.
A Star in the Making
The match at the Emirates saw goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli, securing a comfortable 3-1 win for Arsenal. While Jesus and Martinelli’s contributions were important, it was Merino’s display that truly caught the eye. The midfielder played a pivotal role, not only in breaking up Brentford’s attacks but also in dictating the tempo of the game. His calmness on the ball and ability to transition from defense to attack proved invaluable for Arteta’s side.
Merino’s performance was marked by his intelligent positioning and his ability to link up play across the field. In addition to his defensive duties, he also showcased his attacking prowess with a well-taken goal, capping off a memorable evening. His contribution to the team’s fluid passing and quick transitions set the tone for much of Arsenal’s play, earning him rave reviews from fans and pundits alike.
Tactical Flexibility and Work Rate
What made Merino’s performance stand out even more was his tactical versatility. Mikel Arteta has built a team based on high pressing, quick transitions, and technical quality, and Merino seems like the perfect fit for this system. He demonstrated his defensive solidity by cutting out Brentford’s counter-attacks, while also offering a creative spark in the midfield. His ability to operate across multiple roles—whether as a deep-lying playmaker or a box-to-box presence—gave Arteta the flexibility to adjust tactics in real-time.
Merino’s work rate was also a defining factor. Throughout the match, he was a constant presence in both offensive and defensive phases, often tracking back to break up opposition attacks, then quickly turning defense into attack with his intelligent distribution. His high-energy performance was crucial in ensuring that Arsenal controlled the tempo of the game, particularly in the second half.
Why Arsenal Fans Are Calling for Arteta to Build Around Merino
The victory against Brentford highlighted why Mikel Merino could be the player around whom Arteta should build his team in the future. Arsenal have had their share of midfield issues over the years, with inconsistency often hindering their progress. Merino, however, appears to be the answer. His performance demonstrated both leadership and technical quality, two attributes that Arteta has sought to instill in his squad.
Defensive Stability: Merino’s ability to break up opposition attacks and recover possession provides the kind of stability Arsenal need in midfield. His positioning and anticipation were key in stifling Brentford’s offensive threats, and his composure in possession allowed Arsenal to maintain control.
Offensive Creativity: Merino’s vision and passing range allow him to unlock defenses, something that was evident when he scored a brilliant long-range goal to double Arsenal’s lead. His link-up play with teammates like Ødegaard and Saka provided a perfect balance between defense and attack.
Leadership and Composure: One of the standout qualities of Merino’s performance was his leadership. While players like Martin Ødegaard are often viewed as the creative leaders in midfield, Merino brought an added dimension with his physicality, experience, and ability to control the flow of the game.
Arteta’s Vision for the Future
For Mikel Arteta, this victory against Brentford and Merino’s performance may represent the start of a new era in Arsenal’s midfield. The team has been progressing steadily under the Spanish manager, and the inclusion of a player like Merino could be the final piece of the puzzle. His tactical intelligence and versatility would allow Arteta to rotate his midfield options more effectively, giving him the ability to adapt to different opponents while maintaining the team’s high standards of performance.
Merino could slot into a double pivot, partnering with players like Thomas Partey or Granit Xhaka, or he could operate as a central figure in a more attacking midfield role. Regardless of his exact position, his versatility and consistency are qualities that Arteta will value immensely moving forward.
What’s Next for Mikel Merino?
With this historic performance now etched into Arsenal fans’ memories, the question is whether Merino can continue this level of play on a consistent basis. If he can, he may very well become a central figure in Arteta’s plans for the future. The Gunners’ midfield has often lacked a player who can both break up play and contribute offensively, but Merino appears to possess both qualities in abundance.
As the season progresses, Arsenal supporters will be eager to see whether Merino can solidify his place as one of the team’s key players. If he continues to play at this level, Arteta could find himself with a player capable of leading the midfield and pushing the team toward greater success.
Conclusion
Mikel Merino’s performance in Arsenal’s 3-1 win against Brentford was a revelation. His all-around display, capped with a brilliant goal, has left fans calling for Arteta to build the team around him. With his defensive discipline, offensive creativity, and leadership qualities, Merino appears to be the perfect fit for Arsenal’s system under Arteta. If this performance is anything to go by, Merino could become the midfield anchor that Arsenal has been searching for, and his future at the club looks incredibly promising.