Following a series of defeats, Mikel Merino urged Arsenal to concentrate on each match, while the return of Martin Odegaard represents a positive development for the team.
Mikel Merino states that Arsenal had ceased to contemplate winning the Premier League after trailing Liverpool by nine points.
A 1-1 stalemate at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea resulted in Arsenal falling further behind, prolonging their winless streak in the Premier League to four matches. Mikel Arteta’s team, having finished as runners-up for the past two seasons, was anticipated to secure the title for the first time in 21 years; however, such aspirations have waned as Arsenal has not achieved victory since October 5.
Merino and his colleagues are in a predicament.
Pedro Neto of Chelsea equalized in the second half following Gabriel Martinelli’s initial goal, placing Arsenal in a precarious position as the league recommenced after the international hiatus. Merino, who substituted for Declan Rice despite a toe injury, stated: “Personally, I am not contemplating the title at this moment.” We must concentrate on each incremental step, every training session, and each game without overthinking the long-term implications.
Having relinquished 14 points after 11 matches, Arsenal is in significant jeopardy. In recent seasons, a minimum of 90 points has been requisite to secure the title; nevertheless, based on their present performance, Arsenal is encountering a significant difficulty to attain that threshold. Nevertheless, last season they experienced a remarkable performance, securing victory in 16 of their last 18 matches since January, which still provides a glimmer of optimism.
Merino expresses optimism: “I am hopeful that we can achieve improved results.” We ought to disregard the unfavorable aspects and concentrate on our desired approach to play. He emphasized that the team should avoid imposing excessive pressure on themselves and concentrate on each game to preserve their performance.
currently.Arsenal on X: “I was highly impressed with Mikel Merino’s brief appearance against Chelsea yesterday.” This marked his inaugural appearance alongside Martin Ødegaard in the Arsenal midfield, and one could
A positive development for the team was the return of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard following a prolonged ankle ailment. Odegaard provided an assist for Martinelli’s opening goal of the match. Merino emphasized the significance of Odegaard’s return: “When Martin Odegaard is on the field, we are a more formidable team.” It is imperative that all players perform at their optimum level, not alone Odegaard, to secure favorable outcomes for the remainder of the season.