Mikel Arteta drops huge hint that Arsenal star will be dropped soon | OneFootball

Arsenal picked up their third successive win with a 2-0 triumph over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last night.

The Gunners dominated proceedings during the opening half and could have scored more than two goals with the chances they created.

The second half was more about preserving the advantage, and they managed to do so comfortably in the end.

Despite this, manager Mikel Arteta may look for an upgrade in his line-up, and Thomas Partey could be dropped soon.

The Ghanaian completed 27 out of 29 passes yesterday, but he seemed reluctant to get into challenges and did not contest a single duel.

The £45 million signing did not attempt a tackle either. He made only four recoveries and three interceptions before being subbed in the 64th minute.

Merino, who made his Gunners debut replacing him, was much more lively from the number six role.

The Spaniard won four duels and two tackles in 30 minutes. He also made three recoveries and two clearances with six accurate passes.

It was a good debut showing from the former Real Sociedad man, and it won’t be long before he displaces Partey from the XI.

Arteta dropped a huge hint that Merino could soon be starting alongside Declan Rice after he replaced Partey after the hour mark.

It may not happen against Southampton this weekend, considering Merino has had just one full training session after his shoulder injury.

However, the 28-year-old could become a crucial figure in the team following the international break.

Arsenal are currently third in the league table with 14 points, one adrift of table-toppers Liverpool.

Stats from Fotmob.com.