Arsenal have received a major boost ahead of the UEFA Champions League final as midfielder Mikel Merino returned to training. The Spanish international had been sidelined since January with a foot injury, but his recovery has given manager Mikel Arteta fresh optimism ahead of the biggest match of the season.
Mikel Merino Returns to Training
Mikel Merino is now training with Arsenal ahead of their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace on Sunday, May 24. The former Real Sociedad star played a key role for the Gunners during the first half of the season, providing creativity and balance in midfield. According to Arsenal's official website, Arteta described Merino's return as a huge boost for the squad. He said: "Mikel is going to start to train with the group tomorrow. Today, he's gone out a little bit, but it was just a reintegration. We're going to prepare really well because we need to now lift again our habits and the standards that we normally do things to be in the best possible way to compete."
Fans React to Merino's Return
Arsenal supporters have taken to social media to express their excitement. @Iam_Tho6ie said: "Mikel Merino! He's scoring the winning goal in the UCL Final for Arsenal." @jmbuthia2 wrote: "That winning header at the champions league final is gonna be fire." @padunck commented: "At least another season, as he's versatile. Besides being an emergency CF, Merino can also play as an attacking midfielder and centre back."
Arsenal to Face PSG in UCL Final
Arsenal will take on Paris Saint-Germain in this year's UEFA Champions League final in Budapest on May 30. The French club defeated Bayern Munich 6-5 on aggregate to qualify for their second consecutive final, having beaten Inter Milan 5-0 last season. PSG have scored 44 goals in the ongoing tournament, including five in the first leg against Bayern. The final will be held at the 67,000-capacity Puskas Arena, which has previously hosted the 2023 Europa League final and the 2020 Super Cup. This year's final will kick off at 5pm GMT, a departure from the usual 10pm start time.
How Much Arsenal Earned for Reaching Final
According to reports, Arsenal earned €18.5 million after their victory over Atletico Madrid sent them to the final. The Gunners received €18.62 million as a starting fee, €37 million from the value pillar, €2.1 million for each win, and €9.9 million for finishing first in their group. Additional bonuses include €11 million for reaching the Round of 16, €12.5 million for the quarter-final, and €15 million for the semi-final.
