“Footballer Of The Highest Calibre” – MARCA Wax Lyrical About Mikel Merino’s Display vs Serbia

By The Editor
on 15th October 2024

Mikel Merino looks to be back in his groove…

 

Mikel Merino continued his ascension back to full fitness during the international break after completing 65 minutes for Spain in their 3-0 win against Serbia, with the midfielder receiving praise from the Spanish press for his display.

The former Real Sociedad man built on his 30-minute cameo against Denmark with another impressive showing as the Spanish coaches load him with minutes.

Merino, who suffered a fractured scapula in his first training session at Arsenal, has only made two substitute appearances at club level this season.

Those minutes against Paris Saint-Germain and Southampton were his first since appearing for Spain in the Euro 2024 final in July. Merino’s protracted move to Arsenal meant that Sociedad were reluctant to use him in any pre-season game and risk an injury.

Merino was handed a start on the right of a midfield three by Luis de la Fuente – almost operating in the same spaces Martin Odegaard occupies for us.

SEE MORE: Latest Arsenal news

The 28-year-old almost got on the scoresheet after his header crashed against the post in the first half, showing a glimpse of the aerial prowess he’ll bring to Arsenal. He also had a volley from the edge of the box cleared over the bar by the defender which was goal-bound.

MARCA journalist Adrian Blanco waxed lyrical about Merino’s display, highlighting his ability to operate in all phases as a complete midfielder.

Mikel Arteta stressed that the main ingredient his compatriot would bring to the side was his football intelligence and Merino certainly proved that in Cordoba.

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