Mikel Merino Declares Spain Fully Ready for the 2026 World Cup Opener. Mikel Merino emphasized the Spanish national team's high spirits ahead of their World Cup debut. The team is aiming for a strong start against Cape Verde and highlights the importance of psychological preparation.
The Spanish national team has completed its preparations for the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Cape Verde. Mikel Merino, the team's midfielder, stated that the squad is approaching the tournament with maximum confidence and inner motivation. According to him, the team is aware of the high expectations and is ready to confirm its status as one of the favorites.
Merino noted that after recovering from injury, he feels great and is fully ready for the workload. The footballer, who plays for Arsenal and recently became the English champion, emphasized that for a successful start it is important to focus on their own actions and not underestimate the opponent. In his view, Cape Verde is capable of creating significant difficulties, as the team plays bravely and has performed confidently against strong opponents in recent matches.
Within the Spanish squad, according to Merino, there is an atmosphere of trust and unity. He recalled that the team has already proven itself in major tournaments, including the Euro and Nations League, where mutual support became a key factor. Special attention is paid not only to physical, but also to psychological preparation — the player's opinion is that mental condition can play a decisive role over the long course of the championship.
The question of choosing the main goalkeeper, which is actively discussed in the media, does not cause tension within the team. Merino emphasized that all three goalkeepers — Unai Simón, David Raya, and Joan García — are highly skilled, and the decision will rest with the coaching staff. As for himself, the midfielder is ready to play in other positions if needed, although he feels most comfortable in the center of the field. Over the past two seasons at Arsenal, he has worked extensively on his heading ability to be useful in attack if required.
The Spanish national team's preparation for the tournament went according to plan, without disruptions or emergencies. As previously noted in a feature on the team's personnel issues, several players went to the USA with an uncertain future due to transfer rumors, however, this did not affect the overall mood of the squad.
The 2026 World Cup will kick off in Atlanta, where Spain will play its first match. The squad features experienced players who have participated in major international tournaments, as well as young talents capable of strengthening the team. Spain's national team has a World Cup victory in 2010 and regular appearances in the final stages of major competitions. This time, the team is once again among the contenders for the title, and a successful start against Cape Verde could set the tone for the entire tournament.
