During Arsenal’s Champions League press conference, Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino made a strong and heartfelt show of support for his teammate Viktor Gyökeres, who has faced growing criticism due to a recent scoring drought. Speaking confidently to the press, Merino insisted that the Swedish forward remains one of the most complete strikers in the squad, emphasizing that “he has the quality” and that it’s “only a matter of time” before he starts scoring again. His words came as both reassurance to fans and a morale boost for the player himself, showing the strength of unity within the Arsenal dressing room.
Merino’s comments reflected maturity and leadership — a reminder that football is not only about goals and statistics, but about consistency, effort, and contribution to the team’s system. He underlined that Gyökeres’ presence on the pitch continues to be vital to Arsenal’s attacking play, even when the goals momentarily dry up. “His work on and off the ball makes a huge difference,” Merino said, noting that Gyökeres’ pressing, movement, and physical strength open up spaces and create chances for teammates. It’s this unseen labor that often lays the foundation for Arsenal’s attacking success.
Beyond tactics, Merino also touched on the human side of the game. He praised Gyökeres’ mindset and attitude during this challenging period, calling him a “fighter” who continues to give his all in training and matches. For Merino, the Swedish striker’s commitment, humility, and relentless energy show his true value to the team. He noted that Gyökeres never allows frustration to affect his spirit or his teamwork — a trait that reflects mental toughness and professional discipline.
The Spaniard also took the opportunity to send a broader message to the media and supporters: patience and perspective are key. “We shouldn’t just look at numbers,” he said, highlighting that footballers go through natural phases of form, but their overall influence must be judged by their dedication and impact. According to Merino, the team’s belief in Gyökeres has never wavered, and everyone inside the club knows that his goals will return soon — because his performances already show promise, even without the final touch.
Merino’s backing sends a strong signal of togetherness and collective belief within the Arsenal camp. In an era when players are often judged harshly after a few quiet matches, his words served as a powerful reminder that trust and teamwork are the foundations of success. With support from teammates like Merino, Gyökeres is poised to bounce back stronger, proving that form is temporary but class — and confidence — are permanent.
