Mikel Merino has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s most complete midfielders, blending technical Spanish flair with the physical dominance required for the Premier League.
Following his high-profile transfer to Arsenal and a triumphant Euro 2024 campaign with Spain, Merino’s stock has never been higher. As of late 2025, he is a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad, commanding a significant salary and enjoying the prime years of his career.
In this article, you will know Mikel Merino’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship details with his wife Lola Liberal, and more.
Mikel Merino’s Biography
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mikel Merino Zazón |
| Date of Birth | June 22, 1996 |
| Age | 29 |
| Education | CD Amigó (Youth Academy), Osasuna Academy |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Height | 1.89 m (6 ft 2 in) |
| Weight | 83 kg (183 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2014 (Osasuna B) |
| Net Worth | £19 Million – £22 Million (Estimated) |
| Current Salary | ~£7.3 Million / Year (Reported) |
| Wife | Lola Liberal |
| Instagram Profile | @mikelmerino |
| Twitter Profile | @mikelmerino1 |
Early Career
Born in Pamplona, Spain, Mikel Merino has football in his DNA; his father, Angel Merino, was also a professional footballer. Mikel began his journey with CD Amigó before joining Osasuna’s youth setup.
He quickly progressed through the ranks, making his senior debut for Osasuna in the Segunda División in 2014. His ability to control the midfield at such a young age attracted attention from Europe’s elite, leading to a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2016.
However, his time in Germany was challenging due to limited playing time under Thomas Tuchel. Seeking regular football, Merino moved to Newcastle United on loan in 2017, a deal that was eventually made permanent.
His first stint in the Premier League showed flashes of brilliance, where fans appreciated his passing range and physicality. Despite his potential, homesickness and a desire for a more prominent role led him back to Spain after just one season on Tyneside.
Professional Career
Merino’s career truly ignited after joining Real Sociedad in 2018. Over six seasons in San Sebastián, he evolved into one of La Liga’s finest midfielders. He was instrumental in the club’s 2019–20 Copa del Rey victory and consistently helped them qualify for European competitions.
His trademark “Count” celebration and dominance in aerial duels became iconic at the Reale Arena. His consistent performances earned him a regular spot in the Spanish national team, culminating in glory at Euro 2024, where he scored a dramatic extra-time winner against Germany in the quarterfinals.
Following his European success, Merino secured a blockbuster move to Arsenal in August 2024. The transfer, worth an initial £27.4 million plus add-ons, brought him back to England to work under Mikel Arteta.
Since joining the Gunners, he has integrated into the midfield engine room, providing the physicality and duel-winning ability that Arsenal craved. By December 2025, he has become a fan favorite at the Emirates, contributing crucial goals and providing balance to the team’s structure.
Wife
Mikel Merino is married to Lola Liberal. The couple, who have been together for several years, tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in June 2024, just before Merino joined the Spanish squad for the European Championship.
Lola is a Spanish model and fashion blogger who shares a glimpse of their life on social media, often posting about travel, lifestyle, and supporting Mikel at his matches.
The couple keeps their private life relatively grounded despite Mikel’s fame. Lola was seen supporting Merino during Spain’s Euro 2024 victory celebrations and has since moved with him to London following his transfer to Arsenal.
Mikel Merino’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Mikel Merino’s net worth is estimated to be between £19 million and £22 million ($24m – $28m). This substantial financial standing is the result of accumulated wages from his contracts with Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle, Real Sociedad, and his lucrative current deal with Arsenal.
Contract
In August 2024, Merino signed a four-year contract with Arsenal, keeping him at the club until June 2028. The deal also includes an option for a further 12 months, which could extend his stay until 2029. This long-term security reflects the club’s faith in him as a core squad member.
Salary
Upon joining Arsenal, Merino received a significant pay rise compared to his wages at Real Sociedad. Reports indicate his salary is approximately £140,000 per week, which translates to roughly £7.28 million annually. This places him among the upper bracket of earners at the club, commensurate with his experience and international pedigree.
Career Earnings
| Year | Club | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Arsenal | £7,280,000 |
| 2024 | Arsenal / Real Sociedad | ~£5,000,000 |
| 2023 | Real Sociedad | £2,080,000 |
| 2022 | Real Sociedad | £2,756,000 |
| 2021 | Real Sociedad | £2,652,000 |
| 2020 | Real Sociedad | £1,924,000 |
| 2018 | Newcastle United | £1,768,000 |
Career Stats
| Statistic | Count / Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 17 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Pass Completion % | 74.6% |
| Duels Won | 56% |
| Ball Recoveries | 80 |
FAQs
1. What is Mikel Merino’s weekly salary at Arsenal?
Mikel Merino reportedly earns around £140,000 per week at Arsenal. This amounts to an annual salary of approximately £7.28 million.
2. Who is Mikel Merino’s wife?
Mikel Merino is married to Lola Liberal. She is a fashion blogger and model. They got married in June 2024, shortly before Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign.
3. How much did Arsenal pay for Mikel Merino?
Arsenal paid a fixed fee of roughly £27.4 million (€32.5m) to Real Sociedad for Merino, with an additional £4.2 million (€5m) in potential add-ons based on performance.
4. What is Mikel Merino’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is between £19 million and £22 million, accrued from his decade-long professional career across Spain, Germany, and England.
5. How tall is Mikel Merino?
Mikel Merino stands at 1.89 meters (6 feet 2 inches) tall. His height is a key asset, making him one of the most dominant players in aerial duels in Europe.
