"Been way above the rest these last few games", "Our hero" - Fans hail Arsenal superstar for his showing in 2-0 win against Brentford

Arsenal fans are in awe of Mikel Merino after the Spaniard's performance against Brentford. The 29-year-old scored the first goal and then assisted the second in the 2-0 Premier League win at the Emirates.

Mikel Arteta's side have restored their five-point lead over Manchester City by beating Brentford at home on Wednesday, December 3. The Cityzens had closed the gap to two points on Tuesday after beating Fulham in dramatic fashion.

Arsenal fans were delighted with the win, but it was Merino who got most of the credit for the win. The Spaniard, who was played up front today, opened the scoring in the 11th minute, heading in from a Ben White cross.

The Gunners had full control of the match but needed an injury-time goal to seal the win. Merino set up Bukayo Saka, and the Englishman scored to make it 2-0 and seal all three points.

The fans were full of praise for the 29-year-old and posted:

Sam

@SGGDAFC

Merino been way above the rest these last few games, what a player

gabs

@gabrielgarol

Merino Masterclass

MA

@offic11almk

Mikel fucking Merino our hero

Mimi

@mimi_316_

Merino is the real MVP honestly

ace

@CH37H0LMGR3N

Wish we had a Merino at my club, instead we employ Delap

Arsenal are up against Aston Villa next in the Premier League, before traveling to face Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League.

Mikel Arteta was told to stick with Arsenal star over Viktor Gyokeres

Emile Heskey spoke to BetWright earlier this week, urging Mikel Arteta to keep faith in Mikel Merino. He claimed that the Spaniard was the ideal forward for his side and should keep his place over Viktor Gyokeres, who was back to full fitness.

He said:

“I’d be very surprised if Mikel Arteta takes Mikel Merino out of the Arsenal XI after his performances up front recently,” he said. “Why would he? When things are going well for managers, they’re very relucent to change anything. As a striker as well – if you’re playing well and scoring but get dropped, you’d be fuming!"

“I think Merino’s success up front goes to show the evolution of strikers. All sorts of players from different positions get put there now – wingers, number 10s, midfielders – it’s just about finding what fits your system the best. Merino is certainly enjoying a good period for Arsenal at the moment, so I’d be surprised if Arteta wanted to change that.”

Merino has 30 goals and assists for club and country in 2025, and has more games coming up this month to improve his tally. He has three goals and as many assists in the Premier League this season, while adding another two goals in the Champions League.