Mikel Merino makes feelings clear after Arsenal star's super-sub heroics at World Cup
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has made his feelings clear regarding his role as a super-substitute at the World Cup following another vital late winner for Spain. The 88th minute goal against Belgium sent Spain into their first World Cup semi-final since 2010, when they won the competition. Merino also scored the winning goal to secure a 1-0 victory in the round of 16.
Speaking to the press after the match, Merino expressed his disbelief and contentment. "I'm just happy I still don't really believe it. When it went into added time I was already thinking about extra time and then it happened again. It appears that coincidences don't exist if you arrive prepared and it fell to me again. I'm very happy. To be two games away from a World Cup is a dream come true and we will keep going."
Merino posted on Instagram following his goal, writing: "Ain't no coincidence Here we go again." He has now scored three goals for Spain at major tournaments, one at Euro 2024 and two at this World Cup, all as a substitute and all as winners. His previous strike came as an extra-time header against Germany in the quarter-finals of the European Championships.
Reflecting on the broader impact of Spain's success, Merino said: "It's something that unites the whole country unites the whole world because football is so beautiful. Everyone is watching these games so to be able to give joy to so many people not only in Spain but in the rest of the world is an honour."
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente offered high praise for his influential midfielder. "Mikel is incredible. He has many qualities. He is a player that across the whole World Cup could have played in any team and done great. For us he is the standard of this idea of this model. It is a pleasure to have him and others but especially him. We know that without fail he is always there."
At Arsenal, Merino has also contributed vital goals under Mikel Arteta, including equalisers against Chelsea and Newcastle United, and a brace in the Champions League against Slavia Praha.