Angel Miguel Merino, the father of Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, is convinced that his son is experiencing the peak of his career. The ex-footballer, who played for Osasuna and Celta, also noted the significant impact Mikel Arteta has had on the 30-year-old Spaniard's development.
Speaking about his son's progress, Angel revealed:
I've seen great progress — he has improved physically and tactically. Arteta pays close attention to detail. He works individually with defenders, full-backs, and midfielders. Everything is very well organised, and Mikel has absorbed all of that.
Physically, he has also developed, becoming a bit stronger. English football has a lot of contact, so you need to be at the highest physical level. Tactically, he was already very good under Imanol Alguacil, but he had to adapt physically.
Last season was challenging for the player due to a serious injury and a lengthy recovery. His father stated that Mikel's main goal was to regain fitness in time for the World Cup, which Spain ultimately won:
It was very tough, especially mentally. He had never experienced such serious injuries before. After the operation, they explained the recovery process to him, and his goal was to do everything right and minimise the time needed to be ready for the World Cup. It required enormous effort.
Although he didn't always start in the tournament, Merino managed to score crucial goals after coming off the bench against Portugal and Belgium. His father believes that adapting to this role was key to his success.
Looking ahead, Merino senior is expecting a strong season for his son at Arsenal, despite stiff competition for a starting spot:
I believe this is the best moment in his career. He has overcome a serious injury and is now at the optimum age. He's 30, has experience, understands football, is eager to compete, and is physically ready.
The only issue is that it's Arsenal, where there are many players of starting XI calibre. You've got Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Miles Lewis-Skelly, while Kai Havertz could also play higher up. Mikel will have to bide his time for an opportunity. But the season is very long.
Prior to his injury, Merino had nearly established himself in Arsenal's first team, regularly scoring and providing assists. His father hopes the midfielder can avoid further injury and continue his battle for a place in Arteta's squad.
