Mikel Merino has every reason to pat himself on the back after Arsenal’s 2-1 win against Real Madrid to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. Ahead of the tie, Arsenal fans would have been extremely worried about the prospect of the former Real Sociedad midfielder leading the line against Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Team news with Gunners on cusp of Champions League semi-finals - Mikel Arteta’s men lead the Champions League quarter-final 3-0 after the first leg

"The Bernabéu has magic, everyone knows it's a special atmosphere," Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti told reporters. "We need a bit of everything, quality and a complete game in terms of physicality and collective attitude.