After stunning performances in wins over West Ham and Swansea, it’s fair to say Mikel Merino has quickly became a popular figure on Tyneside, however the Spaniard has shared a brilliant story about how Newcastle fans showed him love before he had even kicked a ball for the club.
In an interview with The Independent, Merino explained how he was walking along the Quayside with his mum the day after he arrived from Dortmund and it was at this point he came to realise that his life could be about to change:
“It was the next day after I signed for Newcastle and I was with my mum walking near the river and a lot of people, were shaking my hand and going, ‘All the best mate,’ and ‘Have a good season,’”
“I looked at my mum and I was like ‘Woah! I’ve only just joined and they know me!’ In Dortmund even on the last day they didn’t know!”
Merino’s mum – a keen football fan – then turned to her son and said, ‘Look, the fans like you already and you’ve only been here for one day! They are nice people.’
The Spaniard automatically felt at home, explaining how the city of Newcastle immediately got his mum’s approval:
“She thinks it’s a really nice city and she’s coming here normally once or twice a month. She loves the stadium!”
“She was happy to leave her son in Newcastle.”
Not only does Merino play with such class and elegance on the pitch, but he seems to come across very well off it. A great story from a great young player.
He has been a revelation so far during his short time on Tyneside and if he keeps this up, could turn out to be one of the bargains of the summer.
Respect well done Mikel
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