Mikel Merino: Arsenal midfielder proving Spain's World Cup hero after overcoming injury that left him in mobility scooter
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has become a standout performer for Spain in the 2026 World Cup, scoring decisive goals in consecutive knockout matches as a substitute. Despite limited playing time, his impact has been instrumental in advancing Spain to the semifinals.
Why it matters
Merino's performance is a major narrative of the tournament, highlighting the impact of tactical substitutions in high-stakes international football.
Mikel Merino might have hoped to appear earlier than the 85th minute against Belgium following his match-winning impact from the bench against Portugal. Instead, he had to wait until the 86th. No matter. Another late cameo, another decisive goal. <p>He is the first player in the history of the World Cup to score winning goals in separate knockout ties as a substitute but that doesn't really cover it. Merino was only given nine minutes plus stoppage time across the two games.
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