Boost for Arsenal as international duo receive rests | OneFootball

Arsenal’s David Raya and Mikel Merino received rests during Monday night’s Nations League fixture, in what will be welcome news to Mikel Arteta.

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Arsenal’s David Raya and Mikel Merino were both available to be called upon by the Spanish national team on Monday, with the side in action against Switzerland, but both were left on the bench by manager Luis de la Fuente.

Spain had already won the group, and in Raya’s case, de la Fuente decided to give his fringe goalkeepers 45 minutes each.

Real Sociedad’s Alex Remiro played the first half, with Chelsea’s Robert Sanchez playing the second. Remiro kept a clean sheet, but Sanchez conceded twice in Spain’s eventual 3-2 victory.

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As for Merino, the decision was likely taken to protect him as he continues to build up his minutes following his disrupted start to the season.

From his minor injuries with Real Socidedad to his transfer to Arsenal and subsequent shoulder injury, it’s been a long road to get going this season. After 82 minutes in Spain’s opening game of the break and with top spot secured, this was a chance to give the midfielder a rest.

Given Spain won the game anyway, they’ve finished the group stage eight points clear of second place, having won five of their six matches and drawn the sixth.

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Raya and Merino should now return to Mikel Areta in good shape ahead of Saturday’s fixture against Nottingham Forest, which he’ll be glad to hear.