'It will be massive' - Mikel Merino explains what he'll bring to Arsenal after completing move from Real Sociedad

The Gunners finally got their man as they confirmed the signing of Euro 2024-winning Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad for €38.5 million (£32m/$43m). Having previously played for Newcastle United, Merino returns to the Premier League after a gap of six years as he penned a four-year deal with Arsenal.

After moving to Emirates Stadium, the Spain international spoke about the aspects of his game that could benefit the north London outfit in the 2024-25 campaign. Merino, who won the most number of duels (326) in Europe's top five leagues in the 2023-24 season, assured his new employers that he would try his best to replicate his performances from last year.

Speaking to Arsenal.com after completing his move, the midfielder said:"I think that’s a big part of my game and that shows the character that I have. I want to fight for every ball and this is something that I learnt when I was really young. Maybe you can win it, or you won’t. I’m not promising I will win every duel, but what I can promise is that I will fight for every ball with 100 per cent.

"It’s always tough to talk about myself in those kinds of terms, but I think I’m a hard worker, I want to call myself a good teammate. I like to work for the team with or without the ball. I’m always thinking about the collective aspect of the game. I like to play with the ball, I have a Spanish culture of football."

When asked if his experience with the Magpies will help him to adjust quicker to the Premier League, the player added: "I think it will be massive, because of how tough this league is if you come as a new player. Maybe you don’t realise it until you try it. But right now I have an idea of how this league is and how tough every game is.

"Obviously talking with teammates, or ex-teammates who are here, I know how high the standard is right now. You have to win every single game. I have a little idea of the stadiums, the teams, the atmosphere you are about to expect, it’s always an advantage."

After registering back-to-back wins in the Premier League, Mikel Arteta's side will be back in action on Saturday as they host an in-form Brighton at Emirates Stadium in a Premier League clash, which could see Merino make his debut.