Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 win over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium on February 15, 2025, as substitute Mikel Merino stepped up in an unfamiliar role to score twice in the final 10 minutes. The victory helped the Gunners close the gap to Premier League leaders Liverpool to just four points, intensifying the title race.
The match remained goalless for 80 minutes, with Arsenal struggling to break down a resilient Leicester defense. However, the deadlock was finally broken when 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri delivered a precise cross into the box, which Merino expertly headed past the Leicester goalkeeper. Just six minutes later, the Spanish midfielder turned makeshift striker doubled Arsenal’s lead, calmly converting a Leandro Trossard pass to seal the win. The result extends Arsenal’s unbeaten league run to 15 matches, their longest streak since the 2010-11 season under Arsène Wenger.
Arteta’s Tactical Gamble Pays Off
With key forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to injury, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta took a bold decision to deploy Mikel Merino as an emergency striker. The move raised eyebrows, as the 28-year-old had never played in the position before. However, Arteta’s experiment proved to be a masterstroke, with Merino stepping up in the crucial moments to deliver a match-winning performance.
Speaking after the game, Merino admitted that the decision came as a surprise. “Arteta told me this morning that I was going to play as a striker,” he told TNT Sports. “It was my first time in this role, but he encouraged me to use my strengths, and fortunately, I was able to help the team with two goals.” Arteta’s tactical flexibility and ability to adapt to injury setbacks once again demonstrated why Arsenal remain serious title contenders.
Trossard’s Miss Frustrates Arsenal Fans
Despite Arsenal’s victory, some fans expressed frustration with Leandro Trossard’s performance, particularly his costly miss in the second half. The Belgian forward had a golden opportunity to put Arsenal ahead after receiving a well-timed pass from Martin Ødegaard, but his wayward finishing kept the score level.
Trossard had been given the responsibility of leading the line before Merino’s introduction, but his lack of cutting edge in front of goal led to Arteta’s tactical switch. While he eventually assisted Merino’s second goal, many Arsenal supporters remain concerned about his consistency in crucial matches. With injuries mounting, Arsenal may need Trossard to step up in upcoming fixtures if they are to maintain their title challenge.
Leicester’s Struggles Continue Amid Relegation Battle
Leicester City put up a resilient fight for most of the game, but their failure to convert chances ultimately cost them. The Foxes, currently in the relegation zone, saw Wilfred Ndidi and Jordan Ayew test Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, but the Spaniard stood firm to keep a clean sheet.
Leicester have now gone 17 consecutive league games without a clean sheet, further deepening their relegation woes. Attacker Bilal El Khannouss lamented his team’s lapse in concentration. “We fought well for 80 minutes, but against a team like Arsenal, you can’t switch off,” he told Sky Sports. “It was easy for Merino to head that in. We need to do better in these situations.” With time running out, Leicester must find a way to tighten their defense if they are to avoid relegation.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
Arsenal’s title chase continues with an upcoming fixture against a mid-table opponent, where they will look to extend their unbeaten run and keep the pressure on Liverpool. Arteta’s side will be buoyed by their recent form but must ensure their attacking depth remains strong amid ongoing injury concerns.
Leicester, on the other hand, face an uphill battle as they prepare for a tough clash against a top-six side. With their survival hopes dwindling, manager Enzo Maresca must find a way to lift his team’s morale and secure vital points in the coming weeks. The Foxes’ failure to win at home continues to haunt them, and unless they can improve both offensively and defensively, their Premier League status could be in serious jeopardy.
