Summer signing Mikel Merino has had a fairly slow start to life at Arsenal, but his true quality is now starting to shine through.
Merino joined from Real Sociedad in August, but the midfielder picked up an unfortunate injury in his first training session which kept him out until October.
The 28-year-old arrived as a Euro 2024 winner, and an experienced player who could settle into the midfield instantly. However, whilst he has impressed at times, Arsenal’s midfield is yet to fully gel with him in the side.
Merino started for Spain in their Nations League victory over Denmark, with Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya also featuring in the 2-1 win, and he delivered a superb display, which has now been praised in the Spanish media.
Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Merino started alongside former Real Sociedad teammate and Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi, and he excelled in the middle of the park.
The midfielder was superb in duels in a battling performance, and his ball-winning ability helped start the moves which led to Spain’s goals.
Marca rated Merino’s performance as 7.5/10, and noted that he received an excellent reception from the Spain fans in attendance for his display.
“Merino put in some good play in the opening minutes, providing solidity in midfield. Spain’s first goal came from his boots after stealing the ball and standing on the edge of the area. He passed it to Ayoze, who played Oyarzabal instead of finishing and the latter put it in off the line,” Marca claimed.
“Merino left the pitch applauding the fans and receiving a warm round of applause in return for his good performance against Denmark. Pedri came on in his place.”
Sport gave Merino a 7/10 rating, but were effusive in their praise of the Arsenal star.
“The Arsenal player had a remarkable match. He recovered many balls thanks to his positioning and intelligence. Spain’s first goal came from one of these recoveries,” they stated.
Mikel Merino’s stats from Denmark vs Spain
Merino was one of the most effective players on the pitch in Spain’s win, and he led the match in several key areas.
The Spaniard won an astonishing nine ground duels from 13 attempts, which was more than anyone else on the pitch, whilst he also led the way with four dribbles completed.
The Arsenal star was a rock in the middle in the absence of Manchester City midfielder Rodri, and he also completed three of his four attempted long-balls, with his passing from deep crucial to Spain’s win.
Mikel Arteta will be delighted with Merino’s display, and his duel-winning in particular. Merino joined Arsenal as an experienced head who would add physicality and intelligence to the middle of the park, and this was on full display against Denmark.
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