Mikel Merino was captured on camera mocking Donald Trump’s signature dance as Spain’s ecstatic team celebrated their World Cup final triumph over Argentina.
Ferran Torres emerged as a national hero overnight in a chaotic and contentious match in New Jersey, coming off the bench to score the crucial goal in extra time after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad significantly outperformed their opponents at MetLife Stadium, compelling Emiliano Martinez to make a remarkable total of 11 saves throughout the match – setting a new record for the most saves in a men’s World Cup final.
La Roja also dominated possession, holding over 65 percent, while Argentina – the 2022 champions – failed to register a single shot on target in a lackluster and uninspiring display on such a significant occasion.
Lionel Scaloni’s team did everything possible to unsettle their Spanish rivals, and this tension continued even after the final whistle, as Leandro Paredes was shown a red card following a violent altercation with Gavi and Eric Garcia.
However, the animosity transformed into joy and celebration as Rodri and the rest of Spain’s team gathered on the podium to raise the coveted trophy high in front of their devoted fans who remained in the stadium.
Trump attempted to intrude on the celebration and had to be escorted away from the stage – reminiscent of his awkward behavior after Chelsea’s Club World Cup victory last summer.
Just moments prior, when Trump was not looking, Arsenal midfielder Merino was spotted imitating the US president’s well-known dance while laughing heartily.
While Merino seemed to find humor in Trump’s peculiar antics, Argentina defenders Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero were both seen declining to shake the 80-year-old’s hand as they received their runners-up medals.
Ahead of the match, Borja Iglesias, the striker for Spain and Celta Vigo, expressed his hesitation about shaking hands with Trump if the opportunity arises.
“Yes, you see, I really don’t want to end up in jail, you know?” Iglesias remarked to Revista Panenka, smiling.
“It’s something I’ve contemplated, something I’ve even envisioned. I hope to meet him at a moment when we are all quite joyful, and that it passes swiftly so I can forget about it.
“At times, it is necessary to let go of experiences you have had, too.
“Let’s be clear, I don’t believe this is the appropriate moment to stir up controversy. People are well aware of my stance.
“I would love to undertake many endeavors, but the truth is that despite what people may think, I do not possess the power to confront certain issues. It’s quite complicated, indeed.”
In a remarkable conclusion to the campaign, Spanish captain Rodri received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
Spain’s goalkeeper Unai Simon was awarded the Golden Glove, while central defender Pau Cubarsi was recognized as the best young player.
On the other hand, France’s forward Kylian Mbappe made history by becoming the first player to win the World Cup Golden Boot twice, finishing as the top scorer with ten goals to his credit.
