Mikel Merino recalled to Spain squad | OneFootball

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has been called up to the Spain national team despite only recently returning from injury.

Merino, who joined Arsenal this summer, suffered a shoulder injury in his first full training session with the Gunners, causing him to miss key matches against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and their Champions League opener.

Spain’s midfielder #06 Mikel Merino celebrates after winning the UEFA Euro 2024 Group B football match between Spain and Croatia at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on June 15, 2024. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente included Merino in his squad for the Nations League matches against Denmark and Serbia, deeming the midfielder fit enough to participate.

Merino only made his Arsenal debut this week, coming on as a substitute during the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain.

In his first appearance for the club, Merino impressed Mikel Arteta, who praised the Spaniard for his performance despite having limited time in training. “He was ready, he was really willing to be part of this today,” Arteta said post-match. “I think he’s done really well.”

LONDON, ENGLAND: Mikel Merino of Arsenal looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match between Arsenal FC and Paris Saint-Germain on October 01, 2024. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Merino played 26 minutes, making two tackles, two clearances, and winning four duels, providing the defensive stability Arsenal needed in the closing stages.

His call-up to the Spain squad comes at a time when La Roja face numerous injuries, with key players such as Rodri and Gavi sidelined.

De la Fuente has made several changes to his squad due to these injuries, bringing in players like Merino, Alex Remiro, and Nico Williams to strengthen the side ahead of their upcoming fixtures.

STUTTGART, GERMANY – JULY 05: Mikel Merino of Spain celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 quarter-final match between Spain and Germany at Stuttgart Arena on July 05, 2024 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Merino is expected to play a key role as Spain looks to secure qualification in the Nations League.

David Raya has also been called up and looks set to be the first choice keeper once again in Unai Simon’s absence.

Raya, who has been in outstanding form for Arsenal this season, started both games for Spain during the last international break, keeping a cleansheet against Serbia and conceding one as Spain beat Switzerland 4-1.