Mikel Merino says he will not complain about being used as a substitute for Spain, despite admitting the role can be difficult to accept as a professional footballer.
The Arsenal midfielder has become a crucial late-match presence under Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, regularly entering from the bench to influence important games. He was speaking alongside De la Fuente at the news conference before Thursday’s match between Czech Republic and Spain.
“Those who decide matches are the ones who win titles,” Merino told Cadena SER, a phrase which has become a defining message for Spain during their current golden era.
‘I feel valued’
Merino was asked about his desire to start, particularly given that he and his international team-mate and friend Martin Zubimendi have not played as regularly for Arsenal as they would like.
“Of course, every player wants that, but I feel valued, as do my team-mates,” said Merino. “I will not complain about the manager’s decision, but everyone wants to have an important role.”
He added: “I see it as something positive. It is not limited to one context. Congratulations are always positive, even if you come on from the bench.”
Merino has provided some of Spain’s most significant goals in recent years. His decisive contribution began with his goal against Germany in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 and continued with the goal which settled Portugal’s fate at the last World Cup.
He has generally been introduced as a substitute, taking on the role of De la Fuente’s influential late option.
Asked whether it was hard to adjust to that responsibility, Merino said: “It is difficult to understand because we compete and think about football individually. Having a manager makes me look at football differently.
“His role is extremely complicated, with the physical demands of the sport and five substitutions. Often, as Luis says, the people who finish matches are the ones who win titles. That convinces you even more.”
‘Arsenal are the best club in the world’
Merino was also questioned about his limited playing time at Arsenal, a situation which also affects Zubimendi.
“The situation is different,” he said. “Martin and I are fully aware of Arsenal’s situation. For me, it is the best club in the world. They have a very strong squad and it is extremely difficult to get an opportunity to play, but I am waiting to see whether things can change.”
Merino also played down discussion of Spain’s unbeaten run and said the subject had not been raised during the international break.
“We have not spoken about it at all during this break,” he said. “We are dealing with it calmly and know it is important. Records are assessed in the future, but for now we are only thinking about the next match.”
On Barrenetxea’s injury, Merino added: “I have not spoken to him, but I wish him a speedy recovery. He deserves that, and I am sure he will get his opportunity again.”
