In the first leg against Real Madrid, when Arsenal dominated.
Merino’s activity came in the final third and opposition box. In the second. When they spent long spells defending, he dropped into the low block, mostly operating in his own half. But still making a decisive contribution offensively in the form of his two assists.
His tactical intelligence help convince Arteta about his potential to thrive as a makeshift striker.
When Kai Havertz suffered his injury. “If anyone can adapt to a different position, it’s him,” he said in February. To quote his old team-mate Flano, “he also has the humility to understand what every game requires”.
It all adds up to a rare level of adaptability and versatility. Which makes Merino a weapon in a multitude of different scenarios, from game to หากคุณสนใจเล่นพนันออนไลน์ที่ดีที่สุด สามารถสมัครสมาชิก UFABET ได้ที่นี่ พร้อมรับโปรโมชั่นพิเศษสำหรับสมาชิกใหม่ game but also within games.
His displays up front have demonstrated his capacity to act as a focal point and penalty-box goal poacher, but he can be just as dangerous making late runs from midfield.
His goal in the 3-0 win over Real Madrid combined both elements.
Before sweeping Myles Lewis-Skelly’s pass beyond Thibaut Courtois from just inside the box, Merino could be seen combining with Partey in the centre circle, then turning and releasing Rice before continuing his run.
The unpredictability of Merino’s movement caused Real Madrid problems and it could be key even in a different role on Tuesday, especially given Paris Saint-Germain have already had a look at Arsenal this season having faced them in the league phase, when they were beaten 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium in October.