Overview

• Mikel Merino headed in Spain’s third from a Lamine Yamal corner as La Roja beat Bulgaria 3-0 in World Cup qualifying.
• Martín Zubimendi set up Mikel Oyarzabal’s opener with an early defense-splitting pass and anchored midfield possession.
• Spanish outlet Eldesmarque rated both Arsenal midfielders 8/10, highlighting their control and clear roles under Luis de la Fuente.
• Match data cited by outlets list Merino with 62 touches, with passing accuracy figures varying between 88% and 92% depending on Sofascore or Fotmob.
• Analysis contrasts Merino’s effective deeper role for Spain with his recent advanced deployment at Anfield, suggesting the Spain setup offers a better template for Arsenal.