Mikel Merino, the Arsenal midfielder, sparked controversy during Spain's FIFA World Cup trophy lift on Sunday by mimicking US President Donald Trump's signature dance. The incident occurred as Trump gate-crashed the podium celebrations at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, following Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina.
Trump's Uninvited Appearance
Trump entered the stage despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino's efforts to usher him away. Spain captain Rodri, who won the Golden Ball, attempted to coax Trump off the podium to preserve the moment. Instead, Trump launched into his trademark YMCA-inspired fist-pump dance in front of the Spanish players. Several squad members, including Victor Munoz and Nico Williams, visibly grimaced. However, Merino, who had been substituted on in the 76th minute, danced along and mirrored Trump's movements before turning to thrust his arms skyward as if lifting the trophy.
Fan Reactions Divided
Social media erupted with mixed reactions. One fan posted: "Please don't Merino. I like you." Another wrote: "Merino hitting the Trump dance it's never been more over for me." Others believed Merino was mocking Trump. One fan commented: "It kills me that Merino mocked Trump right to his face." Another said: "Merino mocked Trump with his dance right in his face." A third posted: "Mikel Merino doing the Trump dance right next to him is historic. Brutal hahahahahahaha."
Merino's World Cup Impact
Merino, who scored decisive goals in the round of 16 against Portugal and the quarter-final against Belgium, also blocked a Lionel Messi strike with his face to help secure Spain's 1-0 win. The 30-year-old Osasuna academy graduate has netted 12 goals in 51 appearances for Spain and joined Arsenal in 2024 after spells with Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle, and Real Sociedad.
Political Tensions Within the Squad
Not all Spanish players were amused by Trump's presence. Borja Iglesias, an unused forward, had told journalists he intended to shake Trump's hand only because he didn't "want to go to prison." Iglesias, a vocal pro-Palestine activist and campaigner against racism and homophobia, stated: "People already know my opinions. I would love to do many things, but the reality is that I don't have that much power to confront certain things." He added: "I hope to greet him when we're all very happy and that it's all over very quickly so I can forget about it."
