Spanish midfielder expresses strong confidence in his abilities following impressive substitute performances.
Published On 17 Jul 2026
Mikel Merino, Spain’s versatile midfielder, said that containing Lionel Messi will be a major challenge as La Roja gear up for the World Cup final against Argentina.
“It is a huge challenge and a great source of motivation for the entire team,” Merino said during his news conference on Friday.
“Playing against a side like Argentina, which has already won the trophy, makes this match especially significant, and I am delighted to be part of this moment,” Merino told reporters at Spain’s training facility in East Hanover, New Jersey.
Argentina captain Messi, 39, has been crucial in guiding the defending champions to Sunday’s final in East Rutherford, providing two assists in a 2‑1 semifinal victory over England.
Messi, tied for the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals, also sparked a dramatic comeback against Egypt in the round of 16, overturning a 2‑0 deficit with 11 minutes left to secure a 3‑2 win.
Arsenal midfielder Merino has contributed decisively to Spain’s path to the final, scoring late winners as a substitute in the last‑16 victory over Portugal and the quarter‑final triumph over Belgium.
“I have immense confidence in my abilities, and each time I step onto the pitch I believe I can positively influence the team,” Merino said.
“Nevertheless, it does not matter who shines; the priority is that the team wins. When a title is lifted, it belongs to everyone, not just the starting eleven,” he added.
Merino praised the remarkable talent of 19‑year‑old Lamine Yamal, who will meet Messi for the first time in a clash symbolising Barcelona’s past and future.
He forecast that the final will be a highly intense encounter and that the referee must manage the tempo and frequency of challenges and fouls.
“The quicker the ball circulates among us, the less opportunity the opposition has to commit a foul,” he noted.
The midfielder acknowledged that he does not have vivid memories of Spain’s inaugural World Cup victory in 2010, yet he recalls the admiration for that pioneering team.
“Representing our country today and embodying the role model for future generations — children watching us — is truly magical,” he said.
