Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has heaped praise on Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, describing him as a “genius” and “one of the best in the world” following his remarkable hat-trick against Turkey.
Merino struck three times in Spain’s emphatic 6-0 World Cup qualifying victory at the Torku Arena on Sunday night. Barcelona duo Pedri and Fermín López also found the net, sealing a dominant win that lifted La Roja to the top of Group E.
The 29-year-old has now scored six goals in six international appearances this year, having also been on target in Spain’s 3-0 win over Bulgaria last Thursday. His prolific form has delighted Arsenal supporters, who saw him step up with crucial goals last season during the club’s injury crisis.
READ MORE: Gabriel Martinelli sends strong message to Mikel Arteta and Eberechi Eze
“We have fantastic players, and Merino is another example of a footballer who does many things well,” De la Fuente said after the win. “He’s a genius and a world-class player who sometimes doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. But he’s one of the best in the world in his position. What we have are good people, who are humble and want to continue growing.”
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente on Mikel Merino: “We have fantastic players, and he is another example of a footballer who does many things well.
“He’s a genius and a world-class player who sometimes doesn’t get the recognition in Spain.
“But he’s one of the best in the world… pic.twitter.com/3opPzK78cN
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) September 9, 2025
Merino, who was visibly emotional after securing the first hat-trick of his career, admitted the night was unforgettable.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
“It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “I am buzzing about it. I am really, really happy. It’s my first hat-trick! I am not used to scoring so many goals. To score three with the national team on a night like this, against a team like Turkey, is magical. It’s a night I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”
The midfielder also praised his teammates’ performance, adding: “Obviously when you face an opponent like Turkey, you know it’s going to be a tough game. We didn’t expect to win by six goals, but we played very well right from the start, respecting the opponent, giving our all, and we were lucky enough to score a couple of goals.”
Merino will look to continue his fine form when Arsenal return to Premier League action against Nottingham Forest this weekend. Mikel Arteta’s side have enjoyed a strong start to the season with wins over Manchester United and Leeds United but will be eager to bounce back after their pre-break defeat to title rivals Liverpool.
NEXT ARTICLE: Alex Iwobi snubs Arsene Wenger, credits surprise coach as biggest influence on his career