Merino speaks out on something drastically good that Arteta has turned the Arsenal squad into

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has praised Mikel Arteta for transforming the squad into a physically dominant team, comparing the current Arsenal side to a basketball team due to their size and strength. Reflecting on the evolution of the squad under Arteta, Merino highlighted how Arsenal’s physicality has become a crucial part of their game, a necessary change to compete at the highest levels.

“I am in the corridors of the training ground just walking, and back at my old club I used to be one of the tallest, so everyone was smaller than me,” Merino explained. “Now I look around, and everyone is taller than me! We look like a basketball team now.”

Merino noted that football has evolved, placing greater importance on physical attributes. “Football now has changed, and now you need a strong team. Physicality is key, we need to be the most complete team possible,” he said, emphasizing that the modern game requires a balance of strength, technique, and tactical understanding to succeed.

However, Merino stressed that physicality alone isn’t enough, citing the mentality of the squad as the most critical factor in their success. “It is not only about being tall and big, you need mentality. If you are tall and big but don’t go with the 100 percent intention to win the ball, it’s just nothing. The main thing is the mentality, and we have that.”

Under Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal has evolved into a well-rounded team that prioritizes both physical and mental toughness. As they continue their pursuit of trophies this season, Merino believes that Arsenal’s ability to combine size, skill, and mentality will be key to achieving their goals.