Mikel Merino makes clear Thierry Henry admission amid Real Madrid Champions League hope

Ahead of Arsenal's pivotal Champions League clash with Real Madrid this Tuesday, midfielder Mikel Merino has shrugged off any comparison with his boyhood idol Thierry Henry.

Merino was dressed in his Arsenal kit when Henry scored the winner against Madrid during the 2006 Champions League last-16 clash, where Arsenal emerged victorious on aggregate. Henry dazzled for Arsenal that season, scoring 33 times as Arsene Wenger's side navigated their way to a heart-wrenching final defeat by Barcelona.

Merino, despite filling in admirably in Arsenal's attack and having Euro 2024 success under his belt, dismissed notions of resembling the iconic Frenchman's style. "I don't see myself as Henry, that's for sure," remarked the Spaniard, who joined from Real Sociedad last August.

"Let's get that out of the equation because I don't think there are many people, who can play like Henry. It's another knock-out match against Real Madrid after such a long time and back then it was an historic moment for the club and for the Champions League in general.

"I have really fond memories of that match. So, everyone is really looking forward to it, to try and get the better of a top opponent on the best possible stage in front of the watching world.

"I'm really happy to have the chance to be here now, having worn that Arsenal shirt as a kid. Here I am now, all these years later, playing in the same knock-out stage."

The 28-year-old has scored seven goals for Arsenal this season but didn't anticipate such success upfront, crediting his team-mates and fellow Basque Mikel Arteta for their support.

"I think I've been a bit surprised at being able to perform and contribute to the team in the goalscoring department quite so often," said the former Newcastle midfielder. "I had no idea it would reach this level. Now as a striker, I'm feeling really comfortable inside the box.

"I think playing with my team-mates is helping me a lot. I've settled very well into the striker role, listening to the coach and the staff. The coach has put his trust in me to play in this position and, so far, so good."

Despite suffering a surprising 2-1 home defeat to Valencia on Saturday night, Real Madrid are still formidable opponents. The Champions League is their turf, and the record 15-time winners know exactly how to clinch victory.

Arteta opted to start several key players on the bench during Arsenal's 104th and final visit to Goodison Park on Saturday. The Gunners should have clinched the win after Leandro Trossard found the back of the net following an excellent assist from Raheem Sterling. However, Iliman Ndiaye scored the equaliser from the penalty spot to ensure the points were shared.

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