Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino is a box-to-box midfielder whose physicality and aerial ability set him apart in a Spain squad that otherwise trends toward the slight and technical. After developing at Borussia Dortmund and Osasuna, he became a cornerstone of Real Sociedad's midfield for five seasons before Arsenal signed him in 2024. His headed goal against Germany at Euro 2024 — deep into extra time — was one of the tournament's defining moments and encapsulated his value: a player who contributes at both ends and arrives in the box with purpose. He brings a different profile to Spain's midfield that de la Fuente has learned to use cleverly.