Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has revealed that a powerful shot from Lionel Messi struck him in the face during the World Cup final, temporarily leaving him unable to see through one eye for the remainder of the match.

According to BBC Sport on Friday, October 16, 2026, the Spaniard 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 Spain’s advantage.

The Arsenal midfielder knew the danger Messi posed but was determined to prevent the forward from getting a clean strike on goal. However, standing approximately one metre away from the Argentine, Merino had little time to react when the shot was unleashed.

Writing for The Players’ Tribune, Merino recalled his immediate reaction as he moved to challenge Messi.

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

The ball struck Merino directly in the face, sending him to the ground and severely affecting his vision. Despite the impact, the midfielder remained on the pitch and continued playing through the remainder of the final.

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

Despite the painful experience, Merino refused to abandon his teammates during the crucial encounter. Spain ultimately held on to secure victory, allowing the midfielder to celebrate a historic achievement alongside his fellow players.

His vision subsequently recovered, and the temporary impairment did not result in any lasting problems, according to the account.

The revelation offers a remarkable insight into the physical demands and sacrifices involved in competing at the highest level of international football. It also highlights Merino’s determination to continue fighting for his team despite suffering a painful injury during one of the biggest matches of his career.