Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino delivered a top-class performance for Spain during their 3-0 win over Bulgaria in yesterday’s World Cup qualifier.
Merino signed for the Gunners from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2024 and has since emerged as a key player from central midfield or as a striker.
The 29-year-old started alongside Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi in Spain’s midfield yesterday. He produced a fantastic display over 90 minutes.
Merino scored La Roja’s third goal with a towering header from Lamine Yamal’s corner.
Aside from his goal, he had 62 touches in the game with a pass completion rate of 92 percent.
The Spaniard was also solid defensively, winning three aerials and seven recoveries on the road.
Merino had a difficult outing against Liverpool in the Premier League at Anfield last weekend.
The midfielder played in an advanced role, as Martin Odegaard was not deemed fit to start.
He struggled to produce any clear-cut chances before he was eventually replaced in the 70th minute.
Yesterday’s performance should provide him with plenty of confidence. Hopefully, he can carry over the form when Arsenal resume their league season later this month.
The Gunners have a hectic fixture list to start with. They host Nottingham Forest next in the league before facing Manchester City and Newcastle United (home and away).
Alongside Merino, Zubimendi had a top-notch outing against Bulgaria. He provided an assist while completing 88 percent of his passes. He won 100 percent of his aerials.
The 26-year-old is still adapting to the physical demands of the Premier League. We should get to see the best of the Spaniard at the club as the season progresses.
Stats from Fotmob.com