Merino: From Mobility Scooter to World Cup Hero — Again

By Alex Morgan | July 11, 2026

Six months ago, Mikel Merino could barely walk. Today, he's the name on everyone's lips after sending Spain into the World Cup semi-finals for the second time in his career — a feat made all the more remarkable by the journey that got him here.

The Real Sociedad midfielder suffered a serious knee injury in January that left him on a mobility scooter for weeks. Medical staff initially feared his tournament was over before it began. But Merino, ever the fighter, defied every prognosis to not only make Luis de la Fuente's squad but to become its decisive weapon.

His late header against Belgium in the quarter-final broke the hearts of the Red Devils and their so-called "golden generation," who now face the reality that their window may have closed. Belgium goalkeeper Lammens' error in the dying minutes handed Spain the opening, and Merino — arriving at the far post like a man possessed — buried the chance with the clinical precision of a striker in form.

A Tale of Two Halves

Spain controlled possession but struggled to break down a stubborn Belgian defence. For long stretches, La Roja lacked the cutting edge that Lamine Yamal usually provides. The teenage sensation was kept quiet by a disciplined Belgian backline, leading many to wonder: where is the spark?

"We waited for Lamine to produce his magic, but Belgium had done their homework," BBC Sport noted. In the end, it was Merino — the man on the scooter six months ago — who delivered when it mattered most.

What Comes Next

Spain now face France in the semi-finals, and Lamine Yamal has already sent a warning: "France should fear us." The young winger, still finding his rhythm this tournament, will be eager to silence critics who question whether he's fully fit.

Meanwhile, England prepare for their own quarter-final against Norway, with Guehi, Rice, and James all returning to training — a boost for Gareth Southgate's side as they chase a second consecutive final appearance.

For Merino, the fairytale continues. From a mobility scooter in January to a World Cup semi-final in July. Football, at its best, writes scripts that no novelist would dare imagine.

Quick Hits

• Vitality Blast: Nottinghamshire secure home quarter-final; Surrey top the South Group.
• Stokes Video: ECB face no disciplinary action over Ben Stokes' retirement tribute.
• Quansah Suspension: Tuchel claims FIFA offered no explanation over the controversial ban.
• Belgium Out: Lammens' costly error ends the golden generation's World Cup dream.

Sources: Sky Sports, BBC Sport, ESPN