Mikel Merino made his Arsenal debut at the weekend, but his Premier League debut came a long time before that.
The Spain international’s stint at Newcastle United is sometimes overlooked, but certainly not by the player himself.
Now a much more mature and accomplished midfielder, who also scored a vital goal for Spain against Germany at the Euros, Merino has talked about his time at Newcastle.
He spoke to La Opinion de A Coruña about that period and looked back at it happily, describing it as a reason he returned to England.
“The Premier League had caught my attention because I enjoyed myself a lot at Newcastle and I always left the door open to returning. I don’t know what my future will be like.”
Beyond Newcastle, Merino also spoke of Mikel Arteta’s impact on him so far during his time at Arsenal.
“He is a coach who is very passionate about what he does. He loves the tactical and also the emotional aspect of group management.
“I am very motivated by having people like that because I am also passionate about my thing, being a footballer. Mikel infects you. That caught my attention and also how he has turned around a club that was in a difficult situation.”
While the Spaniard has played only once at Arsenal, his experience from his time at St James’ Park will definitely help him at his new club.
He doesn’t come in as an unknown entity and will find it easier to adapt to life in England.
Maybe one day he’ll fancy a return to the Magpies.
