{
  "id": 13110258,
  "title": "Arsenal’s lack of usage of Merino and Zubimendi surprises Spanish journalist",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/09/arsenals-lack-of-usage-of-merino-and-zubimendi-surprises-spanish",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-09T12:05:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/arsenal-lack-usage-merino-zubimendi-120500905.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Spanish journalist Tomás Roncero has expressed his surprise at Arsenal's decision to leave midfielders Martín Zubimendi and Mikel Merino on the bench, suggesting the duo would be welcomed at Real Madrid if they were not used by Mikel Arteta. Both players have been key contributors to Spain's World Cup success, with Merino being instrumental in scoring crucial goals. However, since the new season began, both have struggled to secure regular places in Arsenal's starting XI. Despite their performances for Spain, their international appearances do not guarantee them more playing time at Arsenal. This lack of involvement has raised questions among Spanish observers, with Roncero suggesting the midfielders possess the ability to contribute significantly to the team's success.",
  "summary": "Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino are important members of the Spain national team, having helped their country win the World Cup in the summer. Merino played a particularly significant role, scoring ...",
  "key_points": [
    "Arsenal kept Zubimendi and Merino on bench, surprising Spanish journalist.",
    "Both midfielders crucial to Spain's World Cup success.",
    "Arteta's decision raises questions about their regular playing time."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}