News Focus
- Spain began their World Cup campaign with a goalless draw against tournament debutants Cape Verde
- Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino faced the media alone to urge fans and players to avoid panic
- The European champions must wait six days for their next group stage fixture in Tennessee
- Merino referenced Spain’s 2010 World Cup triumph, which also began with a poor result
Mikel Merino has urged the Spain squad to stick together and stay calm. The Arsenal midfielder spoke to reporters after his side began their World Cup defence with a disappointing 0-0 draw against Cape Verde.
The European champions could not find a way past the tournament newcomers in Atlanta. Now they face a long six-day break before their next match. Merino was the only player who did not train on the morning after the match. He faced the press alone to answer questions for half an hour.
“We must not panic,” the 28-year-old said. He reminded everyone that Spain lost their first game at the 2010 World Cup. They went on to win the trophy that year. Merino was just a teenager then, but he remembers that team well.
The midfielder stressed that the squad must act like a family. He said players need ego to perform, but they also need humility. Everyone must support each other when times are hard.
“It is easy to talk about family when things go well,” Merino explained. “But you see the real family when things are difficult. We must stay united.”
He also pointed to their recent success. Spain lost their first match under coach Luis de la Fuente in Scotland. One year later, they were European champions. Merino believes they can bounce back again.
The new World Cup format means longer waits between games. Merino called this a mental challenge. Players have too much time to think about their mistakes. He wants the team to clear their minds.
The midfielder accepted that criticism is part of football. He said the media attention is part of the “circus” they must live with. Big salaries come with big pressure.
Other results gave Spain some hope. Saudi Arabia and Uruguay also drew their match. This means Spain can still start fresh, Merino said. He tries to see the positive side.
“We have humility and confidence,” he stated. “We will not go crazy just because one result was bad.”