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Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino Zazón is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder or forward for Arsenal and the Spain national team.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Mikel Merino Zazón is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder or forward for Arsenal and the Spain national team. He has played for several clubs including Osasuna, Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United, and Real Sociedad, winning the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad and the Premier League with Arsenal. He is also a notable figure in international soccer, having been part of Spain's Euro 2024-winning squad.

Club career

Merino began his senior career with Osasuna before moving to Borussia Dortmund in 2016. He had a loan spell and then a permanent spell at Newcastle United before joining Real Sociedad in 2018. With Real Sociedad, he won the 2019–20 Copa del Rey. He joined Arsenal in August 2024 and became part of the club's midfield setup.

International career

Merino made his senior debut for Spain in 2020. He was included in Spain's squad for UEFA Euro 2024 and contributed to the team’s tournament victory.

Playing style

He is primarily a midfielder but can also play as a striker or forward. Sources describe him as physically strong, aerially effective, and comfortable in tight spaces.

Honours

Merino’s major team honours include the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad and the Premier League with Arsenal. He also won the UEFA European Championship with Spain in 2024.

Key facts

  • Mikel Merino began his senior career with Osasuna.
  • He won the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad in 2020.
  • He joined Arsenal in August 2024.
  • He has been a Spain international since 2020 and won Euro 2024.
  • He can play as a midfielder or forward.
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Canadian context

Merino is relevant to Canadian readers as a Premier League player with Arsenal, one of the most followed clubs in Canada, and as a notable figure in international soccer through Spain’s Euro 2024 title.

Frequently asked questions

What position does Mikel Merino play?
He mainly plays as a midfielder, but he can also operate as a striker or more advanced attacker.
Which clubs has Mikel Merino played for?
He has played for Osasuna, Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United, Real Sociedad, and Arsenal.
When was Mikel Merino born?
He was born on 22 June 1996.
What major trophies has Mikel Merino won?
He won the Copa del Rey with Real Sociedad, the Premier League with Arsenal, and UEFA Euro 2024 with Spain.
Is Mikel Merino a Spain international?
Yes. He has represented Spain at senior level since 2020.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mikel_Merino
    Supports: Birth date, full name, club history, position, and major honours.
  2. Arsenal — https://www.arsenal.com/men/players/mikel-merino
    Supports: Current club, squad number, birthplace, career path, and Euro 2024/club achievements.
  3. Premier League — https://www.premierleague.com/en/players/195384/mikel-merino/overview
    Supports: Nationality, date of birth, preferred foot, appearances, and goals.
  4. UEFA — https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/clubs/players/250080572--mikel-merino/
    Supports: Player registration details, club, position, and date of birth.
  5. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/soccer/player/bio/_/id/209581/mikel-merino
    Supports: Basic player profile including club, position, height, and nationality.