Why Arsenal ace Mikel Merino was ‘remarkable’ for Spain v Denmark

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As one of the biggest clubs in arguably the biggest league in the world, Arsenal have a multitude of players out on international duty this month.

The likes of William Saliba, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli have all linked up with their respective nations in the final international break of 2024.

On Friday night, Arsenal summer signing Mikel Merino was in action for Spain alongside club teammate David Raya as they looked to seal top spot in their Nations League group.

La Roja ran out 2-1 winners over Denmark in Copenhagen, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Ayoze Perez putting the visitors two up by the hour mark.

Although Gustav Isaksen halved the deficit in the 84th minute, Denmark could not find an equaliser, and so Spain triumphed to top group A4.

Merino gave a good account of himself for Spain, and their media were eager to sing the Arsenal man’s praises at full time.

READ MORE: Arsenal ‘superstar’ set for return from injury after international break

Arsenal star Mikel Merino delivers ‘tireless’ display for Spain in Denmark

Sport described Merino as ‘tireless’ and gave him a rating of 7 out of 10 for his efforts on the night.

‘The Arsenal player had a remarkable match,’ they wrote.

‘He recovered many balls thanks to his positioning and intelligence. Spain’s first goal came from one of these recoveries.’

Likewise, El Desmarque awarded Merino a 7 out of 10 for how he performed in the Danish capital.

‘He dominated the midfield at Copenhagen’s Parken Stadium, making himself strong despite the Danish power in midfield,’ they wrote.

‘He combined well with Ayoze and Oyarzabal for the opening goal.

Meanwhile, Marca gave the Gunners summer signing a rating of 7.5 out of 10.

‘Good play by Merino in the first few minutes of the match, providing solidity in midfield,’ they began.

‘Spain’s first goal came from his boots after stealing the ball and standing on the edge of the area, he passed it to Ayoze who played Oyarzabal instead of finishing and he put it in off the line.’

In the second half, ‘Merino left the pitch applauding the fans and receiving a warm round of applause in return for his good performance against Denmark.’

Raya also gave a good account of himself for the Euro 2024 champions.

How many ground duels Merino won

As per Sofascore, who awarded Merino a score of 7.1 out of 10, the Arsenal player won nine ground duels and chipped in with three tackles.

Merino also boasted an 80 percent pass accuracy rate, completed four of his five dribbles, and found the target with three of his four long-ball deliveries.

Spain have now secured top spot in Group A4 thanks to their win over Denmark.

The European champions were already through to the quarter-finals but needed to win at Parken Stadium to progress as winners.

Spain are next in action against Switzerland on Monday night.