Arsenal will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals next month.
Los Blancos won the competition for the record 15th time when they defeated Borussia Dortmund in last season’s final.
Arsenal are aware of the task they have in hand against Real Madrid. Mikel Merino, who joined the Gunners from Real Sociedad last summer, faced the Spanish giants on several occasions with his former club.
The midfielder is currently with the Spain squad and had a chat with Radioestadio Noche. He was asked about the European clash between the north London club and Real Madrid.
When responding to that, the 28-year-old reveals his Arsenal teammates have asked him about Real Madrid’s impressive record and comebacks in the Champions League.
“They ask me what the stadium is like, what the atmosphere is like, if it’s true all that aura that surrounds Madrid in the Champions League and their comebacks. And of course, when they’ve done it so many times, that’s the image you have of them,” he said.
When asked who the favourite is to win the Champions League, Merino explained: “To talk about favourites is very difficult because the Champions League shows you that details make the difference. There are three or four teams that can be considered favourites, but you can’t say just one.”
The Spain international has also talked about the new role under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal. Due to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz’s injuries, the Gunners manager has used Merino to lead his side’s attack.
Onda Cero state Merino is ‘experiencing special moment in his career’, also because of the change of position at Arsenal.
“On a personal level, good. Different, special. Now in a slightly different position, and at the group level, well, we’re still fighting in league, trying to make up points, and in the Champions League with a very exciting tie ahead,” he added.