Mikel Merino says winning the Premier League carries a unique importance inside the Arsenal squad after the club ended their 22-year wait for a league title this week.
The Gunners were confirmed as champions on Tuesday following Manchester City’s draw against Bournemouth, capping off a remarkable domestic campaign under Mikel Arteta.
Speaking ahead of the game, Merino admitted he had been intrigued to learn how highly Arsenal’s players rated Premier League success compared to the Champions League.
Coming From Spain I Was Used To Thinking UCL Was Most Important
“It’s something I asked the dressing room,” Merino told SER (via Yahoo Sports).
“The players themselves told me that the Premier League was more important than the Champions League.
“Coming from Spain, I was used to thinking the Champions League was the most important, but seeing how difficult the Premier League is, it’s harder for me to choose one or the other.”
Arsenal now have the chance to complete a historic double when they face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final in Budapest on May 30.
I Want To Win Both Premier League And Champions League
Despite the magnitude of the occasion, Merino believes finally reclaiming the Premier League title means everything to supporters and players alike after more than two decades without domestic success.
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“It’s a league victory, and it’s very sweet because of the way and the context after 22 years without winning it.
“I think they’d [Arsenal fans] rather have won this league title than the Champions League against PSG, even though it’s true that it’s their first ever,” he added.
“Which one would I choose? We’ve already won the Premier League, so the answer is a bit biased. I’m going to be greedy and say I want both.”
Merino Gives Arsenal Fitness Boost Ahead UCL Final
Merino also handed Arsenal a major boost ahead of the final after returning to training with the squad.
“Being back with the team is fantastic news. I’m so happy to be back with the group.
“You don’t realise what you have until you lose it; just a few drills with the team already feel like heaven. So, I’m really happy to be back.”
