As a substitute at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium, Mikel Merino turned out to be Arsenal’s hero, giving the Gunners a vital 2-0 victory in their pursuit of the Premier League championship.

Arsenal had a formidable task against a faltering Leicester team after their main striker, Kai Havertz, suffered a horrific injury. Although the Gunners’ new attacking lineup had trouble getting going in the beginning, manager Mikel Arteta made a brilliant move by substituting Merino for Raheem Sterling.

The midfielder, who switched to a forward position, not only energized Arsenal’s attack but also demonstrated his striking ability by scoring the two goals that guaranteed his team’s victory. The victory closed the four-point deficit between Arsenal and the league leaders before Liverpool’s next game against Wolves.

The young star, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, stole the show with his explosive play, rattled the post twice and provided the assist for the opening goal as the away section exploded in chants for Merino.

Originally a central player, Leandro Trossard set up Merino for the second goal as Leicester’s poor form continued, with eight defeats in their last nine games. The Foxes continue to be in the relegation zone in the face of mounting fan discontent, with many voicing their disapproval of the club’s management, especially director of football Jon Rudkin.

In his programme notes, Leicester’s chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, acknowledged the fans’ complaints and urged them to support the team in spite of their growing annoyance.

Arsenal’s away fans were vociferous despite the usually quiet atmosphere, as their team dominated possession but was unable to generate many meaningful opportunities. As a result of Arsenal’s lackluster first half performance, Declan Rice threatened with a few forward runs and a header that was just missed, and Sterling had a shot blocked.

Wilfred Ndidi came near with a shot that was easily saved, and the midfielder’s late header just missed the mark, but Leicester had their moments.

Arsenal stepped up their game in the second half, but Sterling’s problems persisted, and in the 69th minute, Merino replaced him in the center, with Trossard moving to the left.

As the game progressed, both teams seemed committed to scoring crucial goals. Arsenal goalie David Raya was put to the test by Bobby De Cordova-Reid, but Merino’s arrival was what started to improve the Gunners’ relationship.

Before helping Merino score the first goal in the 81st minute, Nwaneri displayed poise and came close to scoring from outside the box. Merino went home to send the Arsenal supporters into a frenzy as the teenager’s floating cross reached him.

When Merino finished brilliantly from Trossard’s low delivery in the 87th minute to solidify Arsenal’s three points and preserve their title hopes, the atmosphere reached its zenith.