“We are such a golden generation”: Merino celebrates as Spain add 2026 World Cup to Euros title | OneFootball

Mikel Merino has said Spain are in the midst of a 'golden generation' after winning the 2026 World Cup.

Spain secured their secondWorld Cup title after a 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the game, with the substitute slamming in from Nico Williams' centre on 106 minutes.

Luis de la Fuente's side were well worth their win and recovered from a slow start in the tournament to be crowned world champions. Such was their dominance, Argentina did not register a shot on goal until extra time.

Spain are now unbeaten in 38 games outside of penalty shootouts, a run that represents a European record.

La Roja have now added the World Cup to their European Championship success of 2024, andArsenal midfielder Merino said his country are in the middle of a golden period.

Spain’s ‘golden generation’ crowned 2026 World Cup champions after extra-time triumph over Argentina

"Unbelievable. It's the perfect moment for us," he reflected toITV at full-time.

"We are such a golden generation with these young players that give everything they have for this country, for these fans. Luckily, we got the trophy today.

"It was a game about concentration. We knew we were a better team in terms of football.

"The pitch was dry, it was a difficult game because they are a very, very competitive side and they know how to make the game difficult for you. I think the team was outstanding today and we deserve it.

"When you are facing a low block and you have a team that is defending in your own box, you have to attack the box with bodies on the line and then control the transitions.

"We have very good players that can cross the ball, big threats in the box and the old-school way of scoring goals and we did it."