Arsenal sign Spain international Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad
Spain's Mikel Merino joins Arsenal from Real Sociedad Credit: None
Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Spain international Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad on a long-term contract.
28-year-old midfielder Merino made a significant impact during his time at Real Sociedad, where he featured in 242 matches, netting 27 goals and providing 30 assists.
His tenure in Spain also saw him play in the team's 2020 Copa del Rey victory and their qualification for the Champions League last season.
Born in Pamplona, Merino began his professional career with Osasuna, where he rose through the youth ranks to make 67 appearances for the first team.
His performances caught the eye of Borussia Dortmund, who signed him in 2016. During his time in Germany, he helped the club secure the German Cup in 2017.
Merino later moved to Newcastle United on a loan deal in 2017, which soon became permanent after a strong start.
He made 24 Premier League appearances in his debut season before joining Real Sociedad the following year.
On the international stage, Merino has been capped 28 times for Spain and has had a successful youth career, winning the European Under-19 Championship in 2015 and the European Under-21 Championship in 2019.
He also contributed to Spain’s silver medal at the 2020 Olympics and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League in 2023.
More recently, he helped Spain triumph in the European Championships, scoring a decisive goal in the quarter-final against Germany.
Talking to arsenal.com, manager Mikel Arteta also praised Merino, saying, "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."
