Mikel Merino makes admission about ‘dream’ Arsenal transfer, he had something Martin Zubimendi did not

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Arsenal summer signing Mikel Merino has not had the easiest start to his career in North London, but he is now beginning to settle well.

Merino arrived from Real Sociedad after weeks of negotiations after he helped Spain win Euro 2024, but he was dealt a huge blow as he picked up an injury in his first training session.

This injury kept him out until recently, and Merino made his long-awaited Arsenal debut against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

The 28-year-old has admitted his awe at the intensity of the training sessions under Mikel Arteta, and the experienced midfielder is already catching the eye, with fans impressed at Merino’s performances for Spain during the International break.

Fans are eager to see more of Merino, but they will be particularly delighted to hear his latest revelation about his summer transfer, which highlights the Spaniard’s eager desire to play for the club.

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Mikel Merino reveals instant delight at Arsenal transfer interest

Speaking to club media, Merino was asked what his reaction was when he first heard that Arsenal wanted to sign him this summer, and unlike other transfer targets, he instantly had the desire to move to North London.

“It was amazing. As a player, when a club as big as Arsenal are interested in you – I mean you don’t think twice when these things happen,” Merino replied.

Despite his disrupted start to life at the Emirates, Merino is still happy with how his move from Real Sociedad has gone so far.

“Obviously the culture is amazing here, the coaches, the fans, everything has been like a dream so far, so it’s amazing,” he added.

Mikel Merino’s reaction to Arsenal’s interest compared to Martin Zubimendi’s hesitance

Merino was not the only Real Sociedad midfielder targeted by Arsenal, as Arteta was heavily keen on his teammate Martin Zubimendi earlier on in the transfer window.

Arsenal have made several enquiries over the years for Zubimendi, but all indications were that he was reluctant to leave Real Sociedad.

After Merino agreed a deal with Arsenal, Zubimendi was on the verge of a move to Liverpool, but he elected to remain in the Basque Country.

Merino’s delight over his Arsenal move shows exactly why Arteta will be delighted that he landed the former Newcastle star instead of Zubimendi.

Whilst Zubimendi showed resistance to Arsenal’s interest, Merino could not wait to make the move, and fans will certainly love the attitude he has displayed so far.