According to a report by BBC Sport on Friday, October 16, 2026, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has revealed that a powerful shot from Lionel Messi struck him in the face during the World Cup final, leaving him temporarily unable to see through one eye for the remainder of the match.

The Spanish midfielder recalled the painful incident while reflecting on his experience of facing the Argentine superstar on football’s biggest stage.

Merino explained that Messi had an opportunity to shoot from outside the penalty area, prompting him to rush forward in an attempt to block the effort and protect his team’s advantage.

Aware of Messi’s shooting ability, Merino was determined to prevent him from getting a clear attempt on goal. However, standing approximately one metre away from the forward, he had little time to react when the shot was taken.

Writing for The Players’ Tribune, Merino described his thoughts as he moved to challenge the Argentine.

“No, not him,” he recalled thinking before attempting to block the shot.

The ball struck Merino directly in the face, sending him to the ground and affecting his vision. Despite the painful impact, he remained on the pitch and continued playing until the final whistle.

“I got hit so hard that I was actually blind in one eye for the rest of the match,” Merino revealed.

Despite the injury, the midfielder refused to leave his teammates during the crucial encounter. Spain eventually secured victory, allowing Merino to celebrate a historic achievement alongside his fellow players.

According to his account, his vision later returned, and the temporary impairment did not cause any lasting problems.

The revelation highlights the physical risks players face when competing at the highest level of international football. Merino’s experience also demonstrates his determination to continue fighting for his team despite suffering a painful injury during one of the most important matches of his career.