Mikel Merino mocks Donald Trump at World Cup trophy lift with viral dance

Mikel Merino stole the show at Spain’s World Cup trophy lift by mocking Donald Trump to his face with a viral fist-pump dance. The Arsenal midfielder’s bold move came as Spain edged past Argentina 1-0 in the final on 18 June at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

What happened on the podium?

Trump gatecrashed La Roja’s celebrations despite FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s attempts to block him. Spain captain Rodri tried to steer the US president away, but Trump launched into his YMCA-inspired dance in front of the Spanish players. Merino, introduced as a substitute in the 76th minute, responded by copying the move back at Trump.

Merino then turned and thrust his arms skyward to lift the trophy alongside Rodri and his teammates. The midfielder had already scored Spain’s decisive goals in the round of 16 against Portugal and the quarter-final against Belgium.

Why did Merino’s dance spark a reaction?

Fans split over whether Merino was trolling Trump or just embracing the moment. One posted: “Merino hitting the Trump dance-it’s never been more over for me.” Another wrote: “It kills me that Merino mocked Trump right to his face.”

Others saw it as historic. A third fan said: “Mikel Merino doing the Trump dance right next to him is brutal hahahahahahaha.” The clip went viral, with reactions pouring in on X.

What’s next for Merino?

The 30-year-old has 12 goals in 51 caps for Spain. He joined Arsenal in 2024 and has featured in multiple roles under Mikel Arteta. Merino also blocked a Lionel Messi strike to help Spain’s 1-0 win over Argentina.

Borja Iglesias, an unused forward, revealed he planned to shake Trump’s hand after the match-despite his vocal political views. The pro-Palestine striker said: “People already know my opinions, and I would love to do many things, but the reality is that I don’t have that much power.”

Merino’s World Cup ended with a trophy, a viral moment, and a squad spot at Arsenal secured.