Arsenal celebrated a resounding European victory by beating Lille 3‑0 in the group stage of the Champions League, and midfielder MikelMerino took advantage of the moment to speak with the Ser channel on its program “El Larguero”. The player, who reached the final of the Champions League and the Premier League last season, stressed that the team's objective continues to be the maximum double: winning the Champions League and the Premier League, and that any other goal is outside of his plans.
Merino described the match with Lille as “a very demanding challenge” because the French club is “a very good and hard-working team.” He pointed out that the Premier's own rhythm allowed them to impose their game, and that when the English team scored they “seemed a little down,” which made it easier to control the match. The player from Pamplona, who started as a starter, highlighted the quality of the European match and the importance of his participation in the “mister” squad.
Regarding his role within the team, Merino made it clear that he does not see himself as a “reserve” substitute. “For me, each season is an enormous demand and, with Arteta and the objectives we have, the pressure increases,” he said. Furthermore, the former Real Sociedad player showed his willingness to collaborate with the coaching staff: "If they need to talk to Arteta to give me more minutes, I agree, but I know how the team works and we have a squad." The midfielder added that his experience and leadership can be of great help to Arsenal's younger players.
The player also addressed a recent incident during training, in which he touched Zubimendi's ankle. Merino assured that the injury was “a fortuitous act” and that the midfielder “is a bull” who will recover soon. “If there is someone who does not want to hurt him, it is me,” he added with humor, appealing to the tranquility of his companions.
With the season underway, Arsenal maintains the high expectations that arose after winning the Premier League and the Champions League final the previous season. Merino, who has been one of the club's most prominent names, remains committed to Arteta's philosophy and the goal of achieving the double. The next step will be to see how the coach decides his position in the starting eleven, in an environment where competition is intense and the midfielder ensures that any goal other than winning the Champions League and the Premier League is out of his plans.