Mikel Merino claims Arsenal have the best midfield in football

Mikel Merino believes Arsenal currently possess the finest midfield in world football. The Spaniard made these comments following the arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, who joined the club for a £75m fee.

Guimaraes made his debut on Wednesday night during Arsenal's 1-1 draw against Como. The 28-year-old Brazilian is expected to form a partnership with Declan Rice at the base of the midfield. Merino praised the new signing, noting his composure, technical skill, and defensive contributions during his time at Newcastle.

The Arsenal midfield unit now includes Merino, Guimaraes, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Lewis-Skelly scored the goal for the Gunners during the match against Como. Merino stated that the high level of quality within the group allows players to rotate while maintaining the team's standard.

Guimaraes could make his first competitive appearance under Mikel Arteta this Sunday in the Community Shield against Manchester City. That fixture will see the Arsenal midfield face a trio consisting of Phil Foden, Tijani Reijnders, and Elliot Anderson.

Merino dismissed suggestions that matches of this nature are merely glorified friendlies, asserting that such a concept does not exist for players at Arsenal. His assessment of the squad's strength comes as the team prepares for competitive action against Manchester City.