Mikel Merino, who joined the Gunners following a standout performance in Spain’s European Championship-winning campaign, is eager to establish himself at his new club after a difficult start to life in North London, which included an injury that sidelined him early in his new chapter.

Merino suffered the setback shortly after arriving at Arsenal, picking up a shoulder injury during his first full training session.

The injury caused him to miss crucial fixtures, including the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur, a key Premier League clash with Manchester City, and Arsenal’s Champions League opener.

Reflecting on his recovery and return, Merino expressed his readiness to move forward. “I feel good and strong, with the injury forgotten,” he said while on international duty.

He made his Arsenal debut as a substitute in their 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, gradually building up his match fitness. He followed that performance with another 29-minute appearance in a Premier League match against Southampton, helping Arsenal secure a 3-1 victory.

Now back in the mix, Merino is looking to play a pivotal role for the Gunners as the season progresses.

Merino’s transition to life in England comes after a transformative summer. He played a crucial role for Spain during their European Championship triumph, scoring a memorable goal that helped secure the title.

His performances attracted Arsenal’s interest, leading to his high-profile transfer to North London.

“On a personal and private level, everything changed with the European Championship, with the goal I scored, and the team winning the title. Signing for Arsenal has literally changed my life because everything is different, and I live in another country. I have to adapt to so many changes in such a short period of time but I am ready,” he said during a media appearance while on international duty with Spain.

Speaking about Mikel Arteta, the 28-year-old said, “He is a coach who has a lot of passion for what he does. He loves the tactical and also the emotional for the management of groups.

“It motivates me a lot to have people like that because I’m also passionate about my own thing, about being a footballer. Mikel infects you. That caught my attention and also how he has turned around a club that was in a difficult situation.

“Throughout my career I have never planned the following years. I am more present, having my feet on the ground and being coherent I am seeing my way. The Premier League had caught my attention because I enjoyed a lot at Newcastle and I always left the doors open to returning. I don’t know what my future will be.”

With the national team facing the long-term absences of Rodri and Dani Carvajal due to knee injuries, Merino’s role is even more significant. Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, is considering new options in midfield, with Merino positioned as a versatile choice who could step up if required.

Although Martín Zubimendi is seen as the natural replacement for Rodri, Merino has made it clear he is prepared to adapt. “I haven’t talked to the manager about that in particular. In a situation of need, I can play there or if he asks me, I can play in that position without problem. I am for whatever the coach asks me,” he said.

Merino’s return to the national team follows his absence from the first Nations League matches after the European Championship due to the shoulder injury. Reflecting on being back with his international teammates, he said, “I’m happy to be here again with my teammates after the European Championship.

“I really wanted to be at the previous one but I had the bad luck to fracture my scapula. It’s already in the past. Very happy to start a new adventure with colleagues with whom we have done such great things. We are hungry to keep doing them.

“If we have something clear in this national team, and we have been talking about it for years, it is that all the rivals have a level. We have a week ahead to prepare for the match with Denmark and give our best version. The mentality is to compete in every meeting and that’s why we’re going.”