Arteta backs new signing Merino to make Arsenal ‘significantly stronger’ | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta says new Arsenal signing Mikel Merino will make his team “significantly stronger”.

The Spanish midfielder has completed a £32m switch to the Gunners from Real Sociedad, signing a long-term contract with the club.

“Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility,” Arteta said.

“He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now. Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality.

“As we all saw in the summer, Mikel is also a winner, with his strong performances throughout the Euros helping Spain win the tournament. We are delighted to welcome Mikel and his family to the club and can’t wait to start working with him.”

Merino started his career with Osasuna before spells at Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United and most recently Real Sociedad, and was part of the Spain team which won Euro 2024 this summer.

“We are so happy to have completed the transfer of Mikel Merino,” Arsenal sporting director Edu said.

“This has been another great team effort from many people at the club to finalise the transfer of a player who attracted interest from a number of clubs over the summer.

“Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season. With Mikel’s arrival, he brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead.”

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