Why Mikel Merino Celebrates His Goals by Circling The Corner Flag

According to Mikel Merino, his signature goal celebration is a nod to his father. After a sluggish start, the Spanish midfielder has found his footing in England and is settling in well at the Emirates since joining Arsenal last summer. His detractors first questioned if he had what it required to be successful in the Premier League.

However, he got back into the swing of things and has now scored several goals for the Gunners. Fans of the team would have also observed that he always returns to the same goal celebration after scoring a goal. The Spaniard dashes to the corner and circles the corner flag after placing himself on the scoresheet. Although it’s a unique celebration, it has come to represent him. He has now given an explanation for his actions.

Merino’s Celebration is a Tribute to his Dad

His dad is a former footballer who also did it as a tribute

The fact that Merino’s father played football professionally may surprise some football enthusiasts. During his 17 years in Spain, Angel Merino played for several prestigious teams, including Leganes, Las Palmas, and Osasuna. Additionally, he would sprint to the corner and circle the flag once he scored. When Sky Sports asked the Arsenal player about the celebration following a game against Brentford, he said his father would perform it in honor of Mikel’s grandmother. The younger Merino now honors his father by doing this. Addressing the press, he stated:

“Yes, I have been doing that for a long time. In addition to being a football player, my father used to throw that celebration for my grandmother. I do this as a demonstration of my love and respect for my father and as a means of attempting to honor him. And indeed, I now celebrate goals in that manner.