Spain hero Merino says Arsenal feels like 'family'
Mikel Merino has played a key role under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, and he is planning to stay in north London in the immediate future.
The Spain international joined Arsenal in August 2024, signing a four-year deal at the time, and has proven to be a key part of Arteta's Premier League-winning side.
He has made 78 appearances in all competitions since joining from Real Sociedad, netting 15 goals in that time, having also played as a makeshift striker when needed.
Merino helped Arsenal to the Premier League title in 2025-2026 and was on the bench as it lost on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final.
He did miss four months at the end of the season with a fractured foot but has returned to form at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Spain, coming on to net the winner in its 1-0 Round of 16 win over Portugal.
Although Merino is not looking too far ahead into the future just yet, he is incredibly happy with his life in north London.
"I don't know, I wasn't expecting this," he said when asked if he would end his career at Arsenal.
"I'm calm, I'm happy there, they make me feel as part of the family at the club.
"I'm not thinking much more than that. I'm old, so I'm making the most of every day and not looking beyond that."
