Arsenal summer signing reveals how transfer has 'changed' his life

Arsenal summer signing Mikel Merino has revealed how the transfer has changed his life and why he joined the Premier League title challengers from Real Sociedad.

Having played for Newcastle United in a previous stint in England, Merino impressed last season with Real Sociedad before playing an important role in Spain's Euro 2024 victory.

His move to Arsenal was confirmed in late August but a freak injury in his first training session meant Gunners fans had to wait until early October to see Merino wear the club's colours for the first time in the victory over Paris Saint-Germain.

Speaking to the press at Spain's training camp before their October fixtures, Merino revealed: "This summer has been one of the best of my life. My life has changed with the Euros and my signing for Arsenal.

"Arsenal was a project that really caught my attention, very ambitious. It's a time in my career when I'm looking to grow and win titles. As for Real Sociedad, they haven't had the best start to the season, with important people leaving, but the way they work is impeccable and I'm convinced that the results will eventually come.

"I feel very well, strong, and having forgotten the shoulder fracture injury that I suffered. Very happy to start this new adventure with my colleagues with a lot of desire.

"He is a coach who has a lot of passion for what he does. He loves the tactics of the game and also the emotional, the management of the group. I also feel passionate about mine and when you see others like you you get infected."

Having made two substitute appearances for Arsenal so far, Merino will hope for his first start for his new club after the October international break. Games for Spain against Denmark and Serbia are on the horizon first, but the Gunners take on Bournemouth, Shakhtar Donetsk and Liverpool in their first three matches once this month's international fixtures conclude.

READ THE LATEST ARSENAL NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP