Football : In six minutes Mikel Merino saves Arsenal at Leicester

In a crucial weekend, following Liverpool’s unexpected draw against Everton, Arsenal saw an opportunity to close the gap with the league leaders. Visiting Leicester, the Gunners were determined to make a statement and regain ground in the title race.

Photos : Arsenal/FC Leicester City/DR

Robust defense and injuries plague Arsenal

Missing key attackers like Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli, Arsenal struggled to break through the compact defense of Leicester, led by a formidable Wout Faes. Despite numerous attempts, the Gunners found it challenging to penetrate the Foxes’ defensive wall.

Photos : Arsenal/FC Leicester City/DR

Mikel Merino, the unlikely hero

As the match wore on and the prospect of victory seemed to slip away, Mikel Merino emerged as Arsenal’s savior. Typically a defensive midfielder, the Basque player was pushed forward after Raheem Sterling’s substitution. It took Mikel Merino only twelve minutes to adapt to his new attacking role. In the 81st minute, he scored with a glancing header, showing the instincts of a seasoned striker (0-1). Just six minutes later, Merino doubled Arsenal’s lead by tapping in a cross from Leandro Trossard at the end of a well-executed counterattack (0-2).

Photos : Arsenal/FC Leicester City/DR

Arsenal stays in the title hunt

With this crucial victory, Arsenal temporarily moved within four points of Liverpool, who will host Wolverhampton on Sunday. The Gunners’ win keeps them firmly in the title race, demonstrating their resilience and depth, even when faced with significant injuries.