Mikel Merino injury update: Arsenal midfielder set to run in 2-3 weeks

Arsenal are expecting Mikel Merino to take the next step in his recovery soon, with a return to running pencilled in within two to three weeks.

The midfielder has been sidelined since January following heel surgery, but progress in recent days points towards a steady return.

According to reports in Spain, Merino has already taken a significant step forward in his recovery, having been seen without crutches at Arsenal’s training ground last week.

Medical staff now estimate he could resume running within two to three weeks, provided there are no setbacks. That timeline keeps open the possibility of a return before the summer, although no definitive date has been confirmed for match fitness.

From the matches we’ve followed involving Arsenal this season, Merino’s absence has removed a key element of balance in midfield. His ability to control tempo and contribute defensively has been missed during a demanding period. However, it remains too early to determine whether he will feature again before the campaign ends.

Beyond club football, Merino’s recovery is being closely monitored by Spain’s national team staff ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

Both the player and medical teams are said to be confident that he will be fit in time for the tournament in June, assuming his rehabilitation continues without complications.

The midfielder played an important role in Spain’s recent success at international level, and his availability would be a significant boost for Luis de la Fuente’s squad.

Arsenal are entering a decisive phase of the season, balancing their Premier League title challenge with commitments in the Champions League.

Their upcoming schedule includes fixtures against Newcastle United, Fulham and West Ham, alongside a European tie against Atlético Madrid.

Whether Merino can play any part in those matches remains unclear, but his return would add valuable depth and experience to the midfield unit.

Merino will continue his rehabilitation programme at Arsenal, with further progress expected over the coming weeks. A clearer timeline for his return should emerge once he resumes full training.

Spain will also monitor his condition closely ahead of their summer preparations, with final squad decisions likely to depend on his match fitness.