The Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino is excited about the possibility of facing one of his Arsenal team-mates in North America this summer.

Few things strengthen team unity more than lifting a league title together.

That was clearly visible when Arsenal secured the 2025/26 Premier League title. The Gunners celebrated as a group — first at their training ground while watching Manchester City drop the points that confirmed their triumph, and later when Mikel Arteta and his squad officially received the trophy at the end of the week.

After finishing runners-up for three straight seasons, Arsenal’s long-awaited title win only deepened the bond within the squad, setting up some intriguing potential encounters at the upcoming World Cup.

Mikel Merino and the Spanish national team will travel to North America as reigning European champions and are among the top contenders to win the World Cup in July.

Spain overcame England in the Euro 2024 final, and if both teams top their groups at the World Cup, a rematch would only be possible in the final.

For Merino, a repeat of that final two years later would be an enticing opportunity to go head-to-head with one of his Arsenal team-mates — someone he just celebrated a domestic triumph alongside.

“Declan Rice is just amazing,” Merino said in an interview with FourFourTwo. “He’s shown that throughout his career. He’s a beast.”

He went on to praise Rice’s consistency and contribution across seasons. “He’s been playing at the highest level year after year, featuring in almost every game,” Merino explained. “The energy he brings is unbelievable — his running, his physical support for his team-mates.”

“He’s also a big leader. He’s crucial for both Arsenal and England.”

But Merino’s anticipation isn’t limited to facing the England midfielder. “It would be the same feeling if I get the chance to face Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, or any of my other Arsenal team-mates,” he said. “Playing against these guys, if the opportunity comes, will be fantastic. Honestly, I love it — I love competing against the best.”

— Reported by Ed McCambridge