Arsenal have secured the signing of Spanish international midfielder Mikel Merino from La Liga club Real Sociedad on a long-term contract.
The 28-year-old has been a crucial part of Real Sociedad’s midfield since his arrival in 2018.
During his time with the Basque side, Merino made 242 appearances, contributing 27 goals and 30 assists.
Known for his strong presence in the center of the pitch, Merino helped Sociedad secure the 2020 Copa del Rey title and was instrumental in their qualification for the Champions League last season.
In fact, he led all players in Europe’s top leagues in ball recoveries with 326.
Mikel Merino initially made his mark in England with Newcastle United, joining on a season-long loan in 2017.
After an impressive start, his move was made permanent just months later.
He went on to make 24 Premier League appearances during his debut season.
On the international stage, Merino has earned 28 caps for Spain.
His youth career was equally impressive, winning the European Under-19 Championship in 2015 and the European Under-21 Championship in 2019.
He also played a key role in Spain’s silver medal campaign at the 2020 Olympic Games in Japan.
In 2023, Merino added another title to his resume as part of the Spain squad that won the UEFA Nations League, defeating Croatia 5-4 on penalties in the final held in Rotterdam.
More recently, he was instrumental in Spain’s victory at the European Championships, where they overcame England 2-1 in the final.
Notably, Merino scored a dramatic 119th-minute winner in the quarter-final against Germany.
Born in Pamplona, Spain, Merino began his career with Osasuna, where he rose through the youth ranks to the first team, making 67 appearances and scoring eight goals.
Ready to achieve big things – together ❤️
Welcome to The Arsenal, Mikel Merino 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/WhbHXMaV1p
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 27, 2024
His performances earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in July 2016, where he helped the German club win the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) in 2017.
Sporting Director Edu said: “We are so happy to have completed the transfer of Mikel Merino.
“This has been another great team effort from many people at the club to finalise the transfer of a player who attracted interest from a number of clubs over the summer.
“Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season.
“With Mikel’s arrival, he brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead.
“We welcome Mikel and his family to the club, and look forward to seeing him play in the Arsenal shirt.”
Mikel Arteta added: “Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility.
“He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now.
“Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality.
“As we all saw in the summer, Mikel is also a winner, with his strong performances throughout the Euros helping Spain win the tournament.
“We are delighted to welcome Mikel and his family to the club and can’t wait to start working with him.”
Mikel will don the number 23 shirt.
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