Mikel Merino praised Spain’s unity and golden generation after helping his country defeat Argentina and lift the World Cup in New Jersey.
Mikel Merino has credited Spain’s collective strength and the bond within their squad after becoming a world champion in New Jersey.
The win delivered Spain’s second men’s World Cup, a full 16 years on from their first in South Africa. Merino was not the only Arsenal player celebrating, with David Raya and Martin Zubimendi also part of the squad, Zubimendi coming on during the final as well.
Speaking to ITV Sport after the final, Merino described the achievement as “unbelievable” before highlighting the younger players at the heart of Luis de la Fuente’s squad.
“We are such a golden generation with these young players that give everything they have to, you know, for this country, for these fans,” Merino said.
“Luckily we got the trophy today.”
Spain dominated large spells of the final, but Argentina’s deep defensive line and determination to break up play meant the breakthrough was a long time coming.
Enzo Fernández saw red late in normal time, yet the defending champions held firm until Torres finally turned in Pedro Porro’s cross early in extra time.
Merino felt patience and concentration had been crucial against opponents who allowed Spain few clear openings.
“We knew we were a better team in terms of football,” he said.
“Obviously, the pitch was dry. It was a difficult game because they are a very, very competitive side and they know how to make the game difficult for you.”
He explained that Spain had to push more bodies forward, always wary of Argentina’s threat on the break. The winning goal, he said, was classic in its simplicity: Porro’s cross to the back post, Torres reacting quickest to finish.
For the 30-year-old, the final capped a tournament where his influence was felt, even if much of his contribution came from the bench.
Merino had already made his mark earlier in the tournament, coming off the bench to score a dramatic 91st-minute winner against Portugal in the last 16, then repeating the trick with an 88th-minute goal to see off Belgium in the quarter-finals.
Merino's decisive goal to put Spain into the Semi-Finals. [REUTERS]Merino's decisive goal to put Spain into the Semi-Finals. [REUTERS]
His role in the final may have been less eye-catching, but the commitment was the same. Argentina failed to muster a shot until the 115th minute, when Messi’s long-range effort struck Merino on the head as Spain clung to their lead.
Asked to identify the quality which had carried Spain through the tournament, Merino returned to the importance of the group rather than any individual.
“The connection, the family we are, the dressing room, how everyone fulfill their role to the limits,” he said.
Merino’s own tournament reflected that approach. He did not begin any of Spain’s knockout matches, but scored two decisive late goals before helping close out the final and secure the biggest honour of his career.