Arteta hails ‘unbelievable’ Merino after Arsenal’s win over Ipswich
by Adeola Balogun · The Eagle OnlineArsenal manager Mikel Arteta has described Mikel Merino as “unbelievable” and one of the most intelligent players he has worked with following the Gunners’ 4-2 Carabao Cup victory over Ipswich Town.
Merino captained the Premier League champions at Portman Road and also got on the scoresheet as Arsenal secured their place in the fourth round.
While 16-year-old Max Dowman attracted much of the attention with a brace, Noni Madueke and Merino also found the net in a dominant away performance.
Arteta was particularly impressed by Merino’s footballing intelligence, personality and willingness to put the team first.
Arteta said: “He’s unbelievable.
“First of all, he’s one of the most intelligent players that I’ve seen and I’ve worked with.
“Then the personality is just full of… I don’t know, he just wants to give for everybody.
“He thinks about everything, he thinks about everybody.”
The Arsenal boss also highlighted the Spaniard’s ability to operate in different roles and contribute in the attacking third.
Arteta added: “He has qualities that are unique in football and in our team, his capacity to arrive in the box, he’s capable of occupying different places, to play in different positions, to link play with people.
“And as a midfielder, the ability that he has to score goals like tonight is a different one that we’ve seen lately, but another incredible one.”
Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad for £31.6 million in August 2024 and has since scored 16 goals in 84 appearances across all competitions.
The 51-cap Spain international has, however, largely featured as a rotational option in the Premier League this season, making four substitute appearances.
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Despite his limited league involvement, Merino said captaining Arsenal against Ipswich was a significant honour.
Merino said: “It’s a huge honour. I’m so proud, and to represent this club in this way, wearing the armband – many legends have done it before me.
“To me it’s happiness and I try to do the best thing I can to represent this club, and I know how big it is to wear the armband, so I’m really happy.”
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