It means Mikel Arteta will begin preparations for the new campaign with three reigning world champions in his Arsenal squad.
Arsenal will welcome three newly crowned world champions back to London Colney after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
David Raya, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino all played their part in Spain’s historic triumph, with Luis de la Fuente’s side claiming just the second World Cup in the nation’s history. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, finally breaking Argentina’s resistance in a tense final that looked destined for penalties before Spain found the breakthrough.
The victory caps off a remarkable tournament for Spain, who established themselves as the standout team of the competition with their technical quality, defensive resilience and attacking fluidity. They conceded just one goal throughout the knockout stages and deservedly finished the tournament as world champions.
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For Arsenal supporters, the final represented far more than the conclusion of another World Cup. It means Mikel Arteta will begin preparations for the new campaign with three reigning world champions in his squad, adding yet more elite-level experience to a side already aiming to defend the Premier League title and compete for the UEFA Champions League.
David Raya once again underlined why he is regarded as one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers. The Arsenal number one played an important role throughout Spain’s campaign, producing several crucial performances on the road to the final before helping his country keep another clean sheet on football’s biggest stage.
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New Arsenal signing Martin Zubimendi also enjoyed the perfect ending to his summer. The midfielder arrives in north London not only as one of Europe’s most sought-after players but now as a World Cup winner. His calmness in possession, tactical intelligence and ability to dictate the tempo have made him one of Spain’s most important players, and Arsenal fans will be hoping those qualities translate seamlessly into the Premier League.
Mikel Merino also returns to Arsenal with football’s greatest honour. The midfielder was once again a dependable performer throughout the tournament, offering versatility, physicality and experience whenever called upon. His contributions during Spain’s run reinforced why he remains such a valuable option for both club and country.
Spain’s success is also another reminder of Arsenal’s growing influence on the international stage. Players from across Arteta’s squad featured prominently throughout the tournament, but it is Raya, Zubimendi and Merino who return to north London as world champions.
Winning a World Cup is the pinnacle of international football, and the confidence, leadership and winning mentality that comes with such an achievement could prove invaluable for Arsenal over the coming season. As preparations for the new campaign begin, Arteta will have three players returning from the United States with the biggest prize in world football in their possession, giving Arsenal another reason to believe that more silverware could be on the horizon.
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2026 FIFA World Cup
David Raya
Martin Zubimendi
Mikel Merino
Spain
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