Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has surgery on fractured foot

The 29-year-old suffered the injury during Arsenal's 3-2 Premier League defeat to Manchester United on 25 January. Merino had come off the bench to score in the match but was later diagnosed with a stress fracture that required surgery following specialist assessment.

The procedure was completed earlier this week, with Merino sharing an upbeat update on social media.

"Surgery done! Already closer to be back," Merino posted on Instagram. "Thank you so much to everyone for your messages and love. It really gives me even more energy to face the challenge. Vamos!"

Support followed from teammates, with Declan Rice replying: "With you brother," while fellow Spain international Martin Zubimendi recreated Merino's celebration during a recent match.

Arsenal expect Merino to miss an extended period. The midfielder has been a key figure this season, making 33 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and registering three assists in 21 league matches.

Manager Mikel Arteta admitted it remains difficult to predict a return date, describing the injury as rare and saying the club must monitor Merino's recovery closely.

Arsenal hope he could return in May, which would boost both their end-of-season ambitions and Merino's chances of being included in Spain's World Cup squad later this year.