Mikel Merino shares what ‘really caught his attention’ when choosing Arsenal this summer

After a frustrating shoulder injury during his first month or so at Arsenal, Mikel Merino has now made two appearances in red, impressing in his short cameos.

Fortunately, Merino has been deemed fit and ready to play for Spain over the break, a chance to gain some match sharpness before returning to Arsenal.

Merino played just under half an hour against both Paris Saint-Germain and Southampton, but the Spaniard was still able to leave an impression.

Ian Wright loved Merino’s Arsenal debut – stating his belief that the 28-year-old will be part of Mikel Arteta’s strongest midfield combination once he’s fully fit.

Many imagine that Merino will line up alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard when all are fit, largely at the expense of Thomas Partey.

Mikel Merino says that Mikel Arteta’s passion is already rubbing off on him

That being said, Merino’s teammate Martin Zubimendi decided that he didn’t want to leave Real Sociedad this summer, eventually rejecting Liverpool’s strong advances.

But after choosing to head back to England, Merino has now explained his decision in detail when speaking via Marca over the international break.

The midfielder first spoke about Arsenal’s project and then the allure of playing under Arteta as a whole.

Merino said: “Because it was a project that really caught my attention. And it has values ​​very similar to mine.

“I’m looking to grow, to try to win titles and that’s what they’re trying to achieve. I hope I can win a Premier League, a Champions League.

“Real hasn’t had the best start to the season, but the way they work there is impeccable and there will be no lack of effort to turn it around. The results will eventually come.”

Continuing about Arteta: “I think he’s a coach who is very passionate about what he does. He loves tactics and emotions, managing groups.

“I’m also passionate about what I do and when you see others like that, it rubs off on you.

“That’s what most caught my attention to go there. And how he has managed to turn around a team that was in a difficult situation, that gives you an idea of ​​the coach he is.”

Merino can help Arsenal land a transformative signing next summer

As mentioned, Merino’s midfield teammate Zubimendi chose not to join Arsenal this summer.

However, Arsenal seem very likely to try again in a year’s time, when they could be replacing both Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

As it stands, the experienced duo will be out of contract, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will seek an opportunity to revamp their options in the pivot.

If that is the case then Zubimendi remains the perfect addition for Arsenal, a player who Merino can perhaps persuade towards north London.

Arsenal have a strong Spanish presence among their coaching staff and perhaps David Raya can also have a word in the midfielder’s ear during each international break.