Arteta can strengthen midfield by deploying Merino and Martinelli in new roles

With the international break over, Arsenal has an opportunity to rejuvenate their season as they face Fulham on Tuesday. While the Premier League title may be out of reach, Champions League qualification seems assured for next year. However, the Fulham match provides a chance for Mikel Arteta to prepare his squad for the crucial upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid.

Arteta could consider replacing Thomas Partey with Mikel Merino in midfield and moving Gabriel Martinelli to striker. This tactical shift could improve the team’s balance and explosiveness in attack.

Benefits of starting Merino over Partey

Starting Merino in midfield would allow Arteta to rest the injury-prone Partey and move Declan Rice to a deeper role. Merino’s combative style alongside Rice could create a formidable midfield pairing. Last season at Real Sociedad, Merino won more duels than any other player in Europe’s top leagues.

Unleashing Martinelli as striker

Despite an underwhelming season so far, Martinelli has shown his attacking potential in the past. In the 2022/23 campaign, he contributed 15 goals and 6 assists. The Brazilian has experience playing as a center forward, averaging a goal every 2.11 games in that position.

Martinelli’s pace and explosiveness up front could stretch opposing defenses and create space for his teammates. While his finishing has been inconsistent recently, his ability to threaten in behind could add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.

By implementing these changes against Fulham, Arteta can assess if this tactical setup could give Arsenal the best chance of success against Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League tie.