Mikel Merino believes Arsenal may now possess the best midfield in football following the £75million signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United.
Guimaraes made his first appearance for Mikel Arteta’s side during Wednesday’s 1-1 pre-season draw against Como, playing the entire second half before converting his penalty in Arsenal’s 4-3 shootout victory.
The Brazilian joins an already stacked group of midfield options containing Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze and Merino.
Merino has now made a huge claim about just how strong that department has become.
Mikel Merino hails Bruno Guimaraes Arsenal signing
Speaking to Hayters, Merino described Guimaraes as an “amazing signing” after getting his first close look at the former Newcastle captain in an Arsenal shirt.
The Spain international highlighted Guimaraes’ composure, technical quality and defensive contribution before turning his attention towards Arsenal’s wider midfield.
Merino said the quality available to Arteta is “unreal” and described it as “probably the best midfield in football”.
Competition for places is consequently going to be fierce.
Guimaraes arrives as an established Premier League midfielder rather than a squad option, while Rice and Odegaard remain central to Arteta’s plans. Zubimendi played an important role in last season’s title triumph, with Eze and Merino providing further high-level options.
ReadArsenal looked at what Guimaraes produced on his Arsenal debut against Como, when the 28-year-old completed his first 45 minutes for the club.
Merino believes that level of competition should ultimately improve Arsenal.
Players know a poor performance could result in somebody else taking their place, which should raise standards as Arteta’s side attempt to defend the Premier League title.
Guimaraes could now be in contention for his first competitive Arsenal appearance when the Gunners face Manchester City in Sunday’s Community Shield.
Comments.
Loading comments…