Spain hero’s father addresses future speculations amid Barcelona rumours

Mikel Merino was the hero for Spain in their narrow win over Germany in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.

With the game poised 1-1 during extra time, it was the Real Sociedad midfielder, whose header in the final minutes of the game ensured a late win for La Roja, helping them book tickets for the semifinals.

Shortly after the game, Merino’s father, Miguel Merino, spoke to El Chiringuito, offering more clarity on the player’s future this summer, especially amid interest from FC Barcelona.

Merino’s father doesn’t rule out Sociedad exit

Merino’s father clarified that the player will not take any decision over his future at least until the Euro 2024 is over.

“Mikel has already said time and again that he won’t talk about anything else until the Spanish national team finishes its participation in the Euros,” Miguel said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

Mikel Merino scored an important late goal for Spain vs Germany (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)

“For now, he will only talk about the Euros and then talk to his agent and his club and whoever he needs to talk to to sort out what needs to be sorted out,” he added.

Barcelona are among the clubs interested in the services of Merino, as part of their plans to shore up the options in the defensive midfield position.

Merino is currently in the final year of his contract at Real Sociedad and could be available on a cut-price deal this summer.

In fact, Miguel Merino was asked about the interest from FC Barcelona in the interview and he offered a rather coy response.

Addressing Barça rumours, he said, “Mikel is still a Real Sociedad player and he owes himself to that club, it is not acceptable, now we have to enjoy this moment with the national team and then we will see what happens.”

Earlier this summer, Mikel Merino himself had addressed Barcelona speculation, stating them as a ‘positive’. He also reiterated that he will only be interested in talking about Euro 2024, at least until the tournament is over.

For now, Merino will maintain his focus on the task ahead for Spain, who are set to take on France in the semifinals of the competition.