Mikel Merino: Real Madrid’s Unexpected Nemesis Ahead of Crucial Second Leg

Spanish midfielder has scored more goals against Los Blancos than any other club in his career, As Real Madrid prepare for their high-stakes second leg against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu, one name stands out as a surprising threat: Mikel Merino.

The Spanish midfielder has now scored more goals against Real Madrid than any other team in his career, with a total of four goals. His latest strike came in the 3–0 first-leg victory at the Emirates Stadium, sealing Arsenal’s dominant performance and putting Madrid on the brink of elimination from the Champions League.

Merino’s uncanny ability to deliver against the Spanish giants is becoming a pattern — and it’s one that Carlo Ancelotti’s men cannot afford to ignore. Reports suggest that the Arsenal midfielder will operate as a false 9 at the Bernabéu, a tactical move that has previously caused problems for Madrid’s backline.

Despite the difficult task ahead, Real Madrid remain confident of staging another legendary European comeback. But if they are to pull it off, keeping Merino quiet will be crucial. His knack for rising to the occasion against Los Blancos makes him one of the most dangerous men on the pitch tonight.