Arsenal star labelled ‘one of world’s best’ after stunning international display: ‘Genius’

Mikel Merino has shown he has attacking instincts after playing as a makeshift striker for Arsenal last season, and he was clinical for Spain on Sunday as he netted an unlikely hat-trick in their 6-0 romp over Turkey

Arsenal star Mikel Merino has been hailed as a “genius” and “one of the world’s best” by Spain boss Luis de la Fuente after his stunning hat-trick against Turkey on Sunday night.

Merino was in fantastic form to hit a treble from midfield in Spain’s 6-0 World Cup qualifying romp over Turkey, scoring twice before half-time and another in the second half.

There was also a double from Barcelona star Pedri and another from his club team-mate Ferran Torres, but it was Merino who stole the show with his unlikely goalscoring heroics.

Merino has shown he has a knack for a goal despite operating primarily as a central midfielder after playing as a makeshift forward for Arsenal last season after they suffered an injury crisis up front.

His manager De la Fuente was blown away with his attacking instincts during the game as he said the “world class” player doesn’t get the recognition he deserves.

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“We have fantastic players, and he [Merino] is another example of a footballer who does many things well,” the manager said. “He’s a genius and a world-class player who sometimes doesn’t get the recognition in Spain.

“But he’s one of the best in the world in his position. What we have are good people, who are humble and want to continue growing.”

Merino has only started one game for Arsenal this season, with the arrival of international team-mate Martin Zubimendi increasing competition for places. He came on as a sub in the 1-0 win over Manchester United to start the season but wasn’t involved in the 5-0 victory over Leeds the following week.

He did start the 1-0 loss to Liverpool last time out and will hope this gives him the momentum to push for more starts under Arteta at Arsenal. His next opportunity will be against Nottingham Forest after the international break.

Speaking after the game, Merino said he was “buzzing” after grabbing his first career hat-trick. “It’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “I am buzzing about it. I am really, really happy.

“It’s my first hat-trick! I am not used to scoring so many goals. Scoring three with the national team on a night like this, against a team this, is magical. It is a night I will remember for the rest of my life.

“Obviously when you face an opponent like Turkey, you know it’s going to be a tough game. We knew we were coming here to a very tough atmosphere with crazy fans that are always supporting them. But at the same time, we are always confident that we are going to win every game.”

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