Mikel Merino targets FA Cup glory as Arsenal depth shines in Portsmouth win

Mikel Merino has admitted the idea of an FA Cup triumph is very much alive in Arsenal’s dressing room after a confident 4-1 win over Portsmouth at Fratton Park.

The Spanish midfielder captained the side on the south coast and delivered a composed, authoritative performance in difficult conditions, underlining Arsenal’s growing belief that this season could yet deliver silverware on multiple fronts.

Despite a sluggish start, Arsenal eventually pulled clear thanks to a Gabriel Martinelli hat-trick, with Merino providing control and leadership as the visitors booked their place in the fourth round.

Speaking after the game, Merino did not shy away from the long-term ambition, while stressing the importance of staying focused week by week.

“It sounds like a dream,” he said. “There is still a long way to go and we’re focused on the next game.

“But of course, those big goals have to be in your mind. The hunger has been there for a long time. Sometimes it’s about small details, moments, minutes that stop you from winning.

“But the hunger is there every day in training and it will be there until the end of the season.”

Mikel Arteta made 10 changes from Arsenal’s previous outing, yet still fielded a side packed with quality — a clear reflection of the squad depth now available.

With Arsenal sitting top of both the Premier League and Champions League group, a Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea to come, and now the FA Cup underway, Merino believes everyone will have a role to play.

“Everyone is involved and everyone will be important. Games come thick and fast and you never know when it will be your moment.”

Arsenal now turn their attention back to a packed schedule across four competitions, with Arteta rotating freely and confidence growing that this squad can sustain a challenge deep into the spring.

The FA Cup may still be a long road, but belief — and depth — are clearly in place.