Mikel Merino thinks the know-how he has acquired from major-tournament victories with Spain could aid Arsenal in building the self-belief and mindset needed to claim further silverware. According to Daily Cannon, the midfielder, speaking before Wednesday’s's Champions League match against Slavia Prague, discussed the importance of that success on the international stage.

'Having won before gives you the experience to win again'

Merino said being part of a Spain squad that has won the World Cup and the European Championship had lifted him personally and reinforced the habits he wants to see at club level.

"It's an honour and a privilege to be part of those little ones that have won the World Cup, the Euros," he said, in comments reported by Daily Cannon. "Honestly, it lifts your confidence; it's something that gives you energy to keep working."

He added: "I believe that having won before gives you the experience to win again."

Winning culture at Arsenal

Merino pointed to the players already around him at Arsenal, including those who have won the Premier League and international trophies, as an important part of establishing the standards he described as a winning culture.

That mix, he suggested, helps create the environment the squad is trying to build, and he said he hopes it can help the club in the future.

Slavia Prague next

His remarks came before Arsenal's Champions League fixture against Slavia Prague at the Fortuna Arena on Wednesday’s, with kick-off at 20:00 UK time.

Arsenal travel on the back of Sunday's 1-0 Premier League win over Liverpool at Anfield.

Photo: Arne Müseler via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 de, resized.