Arteta: Zubimendi and Merino still central

Mikel Arteta has said Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino remain central to his plans despite fierce competition for places in Arsenal's midfield, even though neither is guaranteed a starting spot, comments he made ahead of the Champions League trip to Slavia Prague.

A photo caption attributed to Arteta reiterated that Zubimendi and Merino are pivotal figures for Arsenal, even though neither is assured a place in the starting XI.

Speaking before the Champions League trip to Slavia Prague, Arteta rejected the idea that their importance should be measured simply by how often they start.

Merino’s role and confidence

Arteta added that their importance cannot be judged solely by the number of starts, noting that Merino has already featured in several important games after returning from a highly successful World Cup.

He stressed that the players must feel valued and maintain belief, because that spirit will help the team win matches.

Competition in Arsenal’s midfield has increased following the summer arrival of Bruno Guimarães, while Zubimendi’s season has been disrupted by injury.

Zubimendi’s only starts this season have come in the League Cup, yet Arteta described him as a very important player for the squad.

Arteta said Zubimendi has been unlucky with an ankle and subsequent nose injury, but despite limited minutes his energy, application and will to help are unquestionable, making him an unbelievable player for Arsenal.