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Mikel Merino will find it harder to demand opportunities at Arsenal this season owing to the club’s summer transfer business.

All in all, Mikel Merino made 44 appearances during his debut season for Arsenal last term, scoring nine goals and providing five assists.

Of course, those appearances were split between a central midfield role and a surprise chance as a striker owing to injuries in the squad.

But in terms of chances this season, Merino might find himself predominantly competing with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in a number eight or ten role.

Merino dazzled for Spain over the recent international break – he scored four goals in two games against Bulgaria and Turkiye.

And with Odegaard struggling with a shoulder issue at Arsenal, the Spaniard is getting his opportunity to claim a first team spot.

Mikel Merino comments on Martin Zubimendi’s start at Arsenal

That being said, Arsenal’s latest Spanish midfield addition, Martin Zubimendi, has already earned a firm spot in Mikel Arteta’s starting side.

Former Gunner Nacho Monreal praised Zubimendi after his performance against Nottingham Forest recently, a display that featured a rare brace for the number six.

Of course, Zubimendi joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad, the same path trodden by Merino en route to north London.

And when speaking via Hayters TV recently, Merino admitted that he had already been seriously impressed by Zubimendi in an Arsenal shirt, a compatriot he was delighted to have at the Emirates.

Merino said: “Yeah, a very good player and a very nice kid, I am really happy and pleased to have him here, he’s a big friend of mine.

“Massive impact from early on, hopefully we can keep seeing this version of him.”

Martin Zubimendi admits he was anxious to join Arsenal

Speaking in an interview with Arsenal recently, Zubimendi spoke about his arrival at the club from La Liga, admitting that he was originally anxious to make the switch.

However, the 26-year-old is already loving life in N5, a process which has been helped by a solid pre-season.

Speaking about his first few months as a Gunner, Zubimendi said: “It’s been good. I’ve settled in well because everyone has made it really easy for me.

“I’ve played in the Premier League but I also played a lot in pre-season which helped me too, and I think it’s reflected in my performances on the pitch.

“I feel at ease and I’m really pleased with how things have gone, coming to Arsenal is obviously a big change.

“It’s natural to feel a bit anxious about what might happen, but everything has gone very smoothly and naturally. People have treated me really well, and I think that’s showing on the pitch too.

“This is a huge moment in my career. It’s the move I was looking for, one I wanted to make. Of course, it’s a big change, but I’m ready.”