Newcastle look all set to complete the signing of Spain U-21 midfielder Mikel Merino from Borussia Dortmund and Spanish-based journalist David Cartlidge has explained why the NUFC-bound midfielder ‘has the potential to go to the next level’.
Cartlidge, a Spanish football expert who has seen plenty of Merino, said the following when speaking to The Chronicle about what Newcastle can expect from the talented 21-year old:
“He’s somebody who will help the team to retain possession,”
“He has the potential to go to the next level, most definitely. He can go far – maybe not to the absolute top but he’s got real ability,”
“He’s 6ft 3ins but plays like Gerard Pique when he’s a defender. He’s definitely a ball-playing defender,”
“He’s not necessarily someone who is going to pick a final pass but he’s not a fist pumping defensive midfielder who will tackle anything that moves,”
“He’s calm and composed. He’s very intelligence and reads the game superbly – he’ll be someone who anticipates and sniffs out the opposition attacks. He’s an excellent reader of the game and that’s probably what appeals to Rafa so much.”
A rave review, with Cartlidge also drawing comparisons between Merino and Bayern Munich’s midfield general Javi Martinez – deeming both to be tremendous athletes with impressive technique.
According to The Chronicle’s Mark Douglas’ from The Chronicle, Merino is seen as somebody who will help United retain possession, offering balance and the ability to pick a pass – all with a decent turn of pace.
Finally, here’s some tweets from Cartlidge on the Spanish U-21 star:
Plenty for #NUFC fans to be excited about with Mikel Merino. Can play as CB, DM, CM (Box to box type). Strong, athletic, very good passing.
— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) July 26, 2017
Heard #NUFC require creativity but Merino not of that type. Will help retain possession, make runs, link-up but not known for final pass.
— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) July 26, 2017
Merino to be someone who helps build play for Rafa more than anything. Smart passing, neat and tidy, keep game flowing in midfield at #NUFC.
— David Cartlidge (@davidjaca) July 26, 2017
