Mikel Merino’s time at Newcastle was, and forgive us in advance for the cliché, a tale of two halves.
The first of his one season at St James’ Park could be seen as a dominating performance, starting the vast majority of games up until around Christmas time.
The second half, however, was as if Rafael Benitez lost all trust in him, starting just twice in the league after New Year’s, and despite triggering the clause in his loan deal from Borussia Dortmund, the Spaniard was swiftly sold to Real Sociedad for a profit.
Despite being hindered by a groin injury throughout October and November, the 22-year-old has established himself as a first-team member in his new side, and, speaking to AS on Friday, he has no regrets over his decision.
He said: “Without a doubt, I was right. Time proved me right. I’m happy. When you make this kind of change, all you’re looking for is happiness”.
The midfielder did admit that ‘while things could have gone better personally’, he keeps on ‘learning and progressing’, which he feels is what’s most ‘essential’ for him at this moment in time.
Turning down both Athletic Bilbao and Real Betis in favour of his current side, Merino will be now be looking to help his side turn their form around, having lost their last two games.
So far, he’s bagged himself one goal in nine appearances, doing so in a 1-0 win over SD Huesca back in late September.
