Merino on fire! Spain's super-sub does it again
Mikel Merino has turned the role of a super-sub into his personal specialty.
Details: The Spain midfielder once again made the difference after coming off the bench, scoring twice against Croatia and turning the match in La Roja's favour. Merino needed no time to settle into the rhythm of the game: his introduction gave Spain exactly the attacking boost they were looking for, and the Arsenal player eventually became the decisive figure in another victory.
What makes the episode even more remarkable is that this is becoming a familiar scenario for Merino with the national team. Just three days earlier, he also started Spain's Nations League match against Czechia on the bench, entered during the second half and scored in the 89th minute to seal a 3-1 victory. Once again, Luis de la Fuente turned to the midfielder late in the game — and once again the decision paid off.
Merino's ability to arrive fresh, attack space inside the penalty area and immediately influence matches has made him one of Spain's most dangerous options from the bench. Against Croatia he went even further, delivering a brace and deciding the contest himself. It is worth noting that Merino is currently 30 years old and represents Arsenal at club level, while remaining a regular member of Luis de la Fuente's Spain squad.
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Steven Perez
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