Merino is a versatile left-footed midfielder who has played in several positions throughout his career, including centre-back during his time at Borussia Dortmund, defensive midfielder at Newcastle United and Real Sociedad and primarily as a box-to-box number eight. He has also featured as an attacking midfielder, being later deployed as a makeshift striker for Arsenal and Spain. Known for his physicality, passing range, intelligence and ability to arrive late in the box, Merino combines defensive aggression with progressive passing and creative play. He is particularly effective at breaking lines with through balls, winning aerial duels and supporting attacks through well-timed forward runs.

From English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA