"Several Arsenal players have caught the eye during the international break, but none more so than Mikel Merino. Mikel Merino in action for Arsenal (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) What an exceptional hat-trick that was for Spain in their 6-0 win in Turkey. All of the finishes were excellent and perfectly showcased his impressive ability to find the net when he's in and around the penalty area."
"A lot of people wrongly view him as a defensive player and we saw that in the reaction to his inclusion in the starting XI at Anfield before the international break. Like others, I would have preferred to have seen someone like Eberechi Eze start that day against Liverpool. Playing Merino with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi did feel like the conservative option in terms of creativity from midfield, but there is no doubt he offers a serious goal threat."
Mikel Merino scored a hat-trick in Spain's 6-0 win over Turkey, showcasing finishing ability and composure around the penalty area. He is regarded as an underrated player who receives unfair criticism and is often perceived primarily as a defensive midfielder. Merino has been used both in midfield and as a makeshift striker at Arsenal. Deployment alongside Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi was viewed as a conservative midfield choice that limited creativity. Merino offers a significant goal threat when positioned in and around the box. Uncertainty persists about his ideal role at Arsenal, and regular inclusion under Mikel Arteta remains unlikely despite his scoring form.
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