Mikel Merino reveals Arsenal’s trophy ambitions after Lille Champions League victory

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino insists the Gunners have the mentality and quality to win both the Premier League and Champions League this season after their victory over Lille. According to the Evening Standard, Merino believes Arsenal can improve on last season’s European campaign, which ended with a penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Arsenal have won nine of their opening 10 matches this season and started their Champions League campaign with two victories, including Tuesday’s triumph over Lille. “It is an absolutely unbelievable run,” Merino said. “We know that we’re making history.”

He added: “The goal and objective is to win the Champions League, to win the Premier League, to win everything. That’s what the manager wants. That’s what the fans want. That’s what we as players want, too.” Asked whether Arsenal could achieve their ambitions, the Spain international replied: “Absolutely. This is our mentality and the aim.”

Arsenal next face Nottingham Forest before travelling to Germany to meet Bayern Munich in the Champions League, as they seek to maintain their momentum across both competitions.