Arsenal celebrated midfielder Mikel Merino after he scored a hat-trick to help Spain beat Turkey 6-0 Cup at the Büyükşehir Belediye Stadium in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World, Softfootball reports.
The Mundial which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada will witness an expanded format of 48 teams and Spain is already looking like they will be one of the nations at the tournament. They began their campaign with a comprehensive 3-0 win over Bulgaria and followed it up with the result tonight.
The result was amazing but as Spanish fans celebrate, the Gunners were also in joyous mood celebrating the feat of Merino. Arsenal posted on its official club media as they recognised his exploits.
Mikel Merino bagged a hat-trick this evening as Spain beat Turkey 6-0. That’s six goals in six games for his country this year.
Merino wasn’t the only Arsenal player on parade for the North London side as they had goalkeeper, David Raya in goal and he kept a clean sheet for the reigning European Champions.
Spanish Coach, Luis de la Fuente hailed his players ability of continuous improvement since he took charge of the team. In his post-match interview shared on the Spanish national official media, he said:
These players have continuously grown since I first met them. They are the best in the world in their positions and are determined to keep improving. That drive comes from within, and this generation of Spanish footballers is truly exceptional.
This group is grounded, natural, and humble. We select the best footballers, but also good people.
This national team is the result of work that starts at the grassroots level, in clubs, and has been cultivated for many years within the Federation. We believe in an idea, a model, and we have players capable of executing it.
The next international break will be in October and Spain will host Georgia while Turkey travel to face Bulgaria.
