Arsenal may have made a valuable acquisition in Mikel Merino, despite him not being the most thrilling deal. The Spanish player, who unexpectedly became a hero in Euro 2024, could prove to be a hidden gem for the team.

The former Newcastle midfielder is poised to make a comeback to the Premier League, and his presence might have a significant impact on the performance of the Gunners.

Euro 2024 featured a series of unforeseen protagonists. Whether it is Ralf Rangnick, who improved his damaged reputation after the Manchester United debacle by leading his Austria team to play some of the finest football in the tournament, or Ollie Watkins, the former non-league striker whose decisive goal secured a spot for a lacklustre England in their second consecutive European Championship final.

Ultimate victors Spain had an unexpected protagonist who played a crucial role in their journey to victory in Berlin. As the quarter-final match between Germany and the opposing team reached its last minutes of extra time, it seemed likely that the captivating game would be decided through a penalty shootout. Mikel Merino, a midfielder for Real Sociedad, entered the game as a replacement in the second half and had different plans.

Merino skilfully positioned himself between the German centre-backs and followed a low cross from Dani Olmo’s smooth right foot. Initially, it appeared that he had misjudged his timing, but after a series of exaggerated leg movements reminiscent of a Jackie Chan film, the midfielder miraculously regained control of the ball and directed a header towards the distant corner. Manuel Neuer could only observe as the ball serenely found its place in the back of the net.

Merino’s contribution in the final was little, as he only entered the game for a brief period of time against England. However, it is remarkable that he was included in the squad that won the Euros, given the unpredictable trajectory of his career. Furthermore, Arsenal is poised to elevate his stock even more in the upcoming season by making him Mikel Arteta’s third permanent signing of the summer transfer window. This will be accomplished through an initial £30 million ($39m) agreement to acquire him for the north London team.

Merino’s upcoming arrival has elicited a varied response. Although his transfer may not seem as exciting as some of the other players Arsenal were rumoured to be interested in at the start of the transfer window, he appears to be an ideal addition to their midfield rotation.
The narrative of Merino commences in Pamplona, Spain. He completed the necessary paperwork to join the local team Osasuna as a young player and quickly progressed through the different age categories. At the age of 18, he made his first appearance in a senior match, which resulted in a win against Barcelona B in August 2014.

Although he was young, he quickly established himself as a significant member in the first squad, making 29 games in his debut senior season. After successfully assisting Osasuna in narrowly avoiding relegation, he gained even greater confidence and responsibility the following year, as he only missed eight league games while his team qualified for and ultimately won the play-offs. Nevertheless, Merino was unable to experience playing in La Liga for his beloved club, as Borussia Dortmund acquired him during the summer of 2016.

Although the German team is known for being an excellent destination for young players, Merino did not successfully adapt to his new environment. Following a period of difficulty in securing a place in the starting lineup, he became a member of Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle in July 2017. Initially, he joined the squad on a temporary basis, but the agreement was later solidified into a permanent arrangement after he had participated in only five matches. He demonstrated potential for the Magpies, by scoring a crucial late goal against Crystal Palace, but was subsequently transferred at the end of that season.
At the time, it was stated that Merino’s departure from Newcastle was beyond their control because of his remarkably low release clause. Real Sociedad acquired the midfielder for approximately €12 million (£10m/$13m), benefiting from a stroke of luck. His return to Spain would ultimately prove to be his turning point.

Following a successful start to his time with La Real, Merino experienced significant growth and achieved several important milestones throughout the 2019-20 season. He not only wore the captain’s armband for the first time, but also won his first major trophy, playing alongside Martin Odegaard, David Silva, and Alexander Isak. Their team, San Sebastian, eliminated Real Madrid on their way to winning the Copa del Rey.

In August 2020, Merino received his first invitation to join the Spanish national team, marking a remarkable end to a successful year. He made his debut the following month against Germany in the Nations League. Undoubtedly, he had become one of the crucial players for La Real, as seen by his recent extension of his contract until the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season, which clearly acknowledges his significance to the team.