Mikel Merino has credited Spain’s unity and emerging generation after helping his country defeat Argentina and win the World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder came off the bench as Luis de la Fuente’s side secured a 1-0 extra-time victory at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute after Argentina had been reduced to ten players following Enzo Fernández’s dismissal.
The victory delivered Spain’s second men’s World Cup, 16 years after their first triumph in South Africa.
Speaking after the final, Merino described the achievement as “unbelievable” and praised the young players who formed an important part of Spain’s successful squad.
“We are such a golden generation with these young players who give everything for this country, for these fans,” Merino said, with his comments carried by The Guardian.
Merino explains Spain’s greatest strength
Merino believed Spain’s patience was crucial against an Argentina side which defended deep and attempted to disrupt the rhythm of the final.
The 30-year-old said Spain remained aware of the threat on the counterattack while committing more players to the penalty area.
When asked to name Spain’s greatest quality, Merino highlighted the connection within the squad and described the group as a family.
His own tournament reflected that collective approach. Merino did not start a knockout match but scored late winners against Portugal and Belgium before helping Spain close out the final.
ReadArsenal previously covered how Merino, Martin Zubimendi and David Raya became world champions following Torres’ extra-time goal.
Zubimendi also appeared from the bench against Argentina, while Raya completed the tournament as part of De la Fuente’s goalkeeping group.
Merino will now return to Arsenal with the biggest honour of his career. His decisive contributions and willingness to accept a substitute role provided a clear example of the unity he believes carried Spain to the trophy.
