Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has revealed how a players-only meeting helped transform the club’s Premier League title challenge, while opening up about the serious injury that nearly ended his World Cup dream.
Writing in The Players’ Tribune, the Spaniard reflected on Arsenal’s championship-winning season, his remarkable recovery and the personal sacrifices behind his success.
Merino disclosed that a stress fracture in his right foot initially threatened to sideline him for six months, ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup.
The midfielder admitted fearing he might never play football again after doctors described his recovery prospects as uncertain.
However, he refused to abandon his ambitions, declaring: “I will be at the World Cup, no matter what.”
His rehabilitation coincided with Arsenal’s pursuit of their first Premier League title in 22 years.
Merino identified a dressing-room meeting following Arsenal’s damaging collapse against Wolverhampton Wanderers as a defining moment.
The players had surrendered a two-goal advantage, prompting an honest discussion without Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta present.
“Everyone spoke up. Nobody talked about tactics,” Merino revealed.
He explained that the conversation focused on collective responsibility, with players recognising that Arteta could not solve every problem himself.
“In my view, that was the day we won the title,” he added.
Merino also praised Arteta’s leadership, crediting the manager with creating a culture that helped the squad withstand criticism.
Despite subsequent defeats against Bournemouth and Manchester City, Arsenal maintained their belief and eventually secured the championship.
The midfielder recalled watching City’s decisive result against Bournemouth alongside teammates and club staff at London Colney.
He described the celebrations as an emotional release after months of injury struggles and uncertainty.
“Bottlers. Runners-up. Champions,” he wrote, reflecting on Arsenal’s transformation.
Merino subsequently returned against Crystal Palace, convincing Spain manager Luis de la Fuente to include him in the World Cup squad.
He went on to score decisive goals against Portugal and Belgium as Spain secured the trophy.
The midfielder also revealed that Lionel Messi’s powerful shot struck him during the final against Argentina, temporarily affecting his vision.
Away from football, Merino paid tribute to his wife, Lola, who supported him throughout rehabilitation while pregnant with their son, Marco.
He also recalled narrowly escaping serious injury during the 2017 Borussia Dortmund team-bus bombing after changing his usual seat.
Reflecting on his extraordinary journey, Merino concluded: “It was difficult, yes. But not impossible.”
His account offers a revealing perspective on the resilience behind Arsenal’s championship success and his remarkable international comeback.