Mikel Merino explains why he decided to join Arsenal

Mikel Merino has explained over the international break why he was 'seduced' by the Arsenal culture having completed his transfer from Real Sociedad over the summer.

The Gunners engaged in a protracted and dull transfer saga with the Spanish club over Merino's signature, with the midfielder eventually joining the club in a £31.6m deal. However, the Euro 2024 winner endured an immediate setback as he sustained a shoulder injury following a collision with Gabriel in his first training session which delayed his debut.

It's fair to say the 28-year-old hasn't set the world alight since appearing for the first time on 1 October against PSG in the Champions League, but you'd be foolish to write off such a technically accomplished performer so early.

Merino has so far racked up nine appearances for the club and netted on one occasion. His bright cameo at Stamford Bridge before the November break offered promise, too.

Mikel Merino explains why he decided to join Arsenal

The 28-year-old described his move to Arsenal as 'life-changing' last month, and Merino, in an interview with El Pais, has further discussed the key factors in his decision to switch San Sebastian for north London.

“I was seduced by the fact that it was a team in a process of growth, that they had not yet won, and they wanted to win," Merino said. "Feeling a participant in building a winning culture, as happened to me at Real."

The Spanish international racked up 190 La Liga appearances during a six-year spell at Sociedad, during which he emerged as one of the division's most consistent midfielders. Merino played a crucial role in the club's most successful period since their title tilt of 2002/03.

“And also, that they insisted that they could help me grow more. It will be a place where they will try to help you polish your defects and become that total player who can achieve more things on an individual level.”

Merino should benefit from the return of Martin Odegaard to Arsenal's midfield and performing a settled role within Arteta's framework. The boss has previously described his compatriot as a "really talented player in every phase", and a run in the team will benefit the summer arrival after the break. The midfielder has so far manifested his efficacy out of possession, but has at times appeared somewhat clumsy with the ball. That's not who he is, and it surely won't be long until Merino finds his groove.

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