Mikel Merino's father has confirmed that Real Madrid considered the Arsenal midfielder before choosing a different profile, while leaving open the possibility of his son returning to Spanish football.
The Spain international joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in 2024 and has since helped Mikel Arteta's side win the Premier League and reach the Champions League final.
Despite speculation about a potential move to La Liga, Miguel Merino insists his son is happy competing for major trophies in north London.
Real Madrid considered Merino before Arsenal move
Speaking on the Spanish programme Goles con Parrado, Miguel Merino was asked why Real Madrid failed to sign his son following Toni Kroos' departure in 2024.
He explained that Madrid's recruitment staff had different priorities when assessing midfield options.
“Yes, well, but they opted for a different type of player for that position. So, it’s a perfectly respectable decision, isn’t it?”
The discussion also included Arsenal midfielder Martín Zubimendi, who was reportedly considered by Madrid.
Spanish journalist Tomás Roncero recently questioned the pair's limited playing time at Arsenal and suggested Real Madrid should pursue January loan moves.
However, there is no indication that either midfielder is preparing to leave the Emirates.
Father leaves door open for La Liga return
Merino's father also addressed whether the midfielder could eventually return to Spain, potentially with a club such as Atlético Madrid.
He emphasised that the 30-year-old achieved his primary objective by joining Arsenal: competing regularly for major honours.
“Right now, he’s at a club that’s competing for everything. That’s what he wanted when he left Real Sociedad.”
Miguel added that any future move back to La Liga would need to satisfy his son's sporting ambitions, particularly Champions League participation.
For now, Merino remains under contract with Arsenal until 2028 and is considered comfortable with his situation in north London.
Key Points
- Mikel Merino's father says Real Madrid considered the midfielder but preferred a different player profile.
- Merino joined Arsenal from Real Sociedad in 2024.
- His father believes Arsenal have fulfilled the midfielder's ambitions of competing for major trophies.
- A future return to La Liga has not been ruled out, but no move is currently indicated.
What's Next?
Merino will continue competing for opportunities under Mikel Arteta as Arsenal defend their Premier League title. Although his father has not dismissed a future return to Spain, his contract until 2028 and satisfaction at Arsenal suggest there is no immediate pressure to make a decision.
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