Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shed light on the recent game-time speculation surrounding midfielders Declan Rice and Mikel Merino.
Arteta attributed Rice’s decreased playing time to fitness concerns, stating that the midfielder has been experiencing “niggles” in recent games.
“We have to manage every player, and there are no exceptions,” Arteta explained. “He plays so much football, and we have nine games this month. We need to ensure he retains his fitness and avoids any knocks or injuries.”
Regarding Merino, Arteta cited the midfielder’s fitness and adaptation to English football as the reasons for his limited starts. Merino has started just 10 games in all competitions, but Arteta is optimistic about his growth and impact on the team.
“He had an injury and another little niggle, and he had no pre-season,” Arteta said. “It took him a while to get set, but now you can see the impact he has on the team. He’s a natural leader, and as he grows in the role, I think we’ll see much more from him.”
