Mikel Merino: Arsenal star admits he is ‘lucky to be alive’ after life-threatening bus attack

Spaniard was on board when hidden bombs went off before Champions League game

By Matt Verri · Standard

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 8:23 AM

Key Things to Know

Arsenal's Mikel Merino recalled surviving the 2017 Borussia Dortmund team bus bombing, stating he is lucky to be alive.
Shrapnel struck the headrest of Merino's usual seat, which was empty after he moved to stretch his legs.
Dortmund defender Marc Bartra and a police officer suffered injuries during the Champions League quarter-final journey attack.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino stated he is fortunate to be alive following the 2017 bomb attack on Borussia Dortmund's team bus. Writing for The Players' Tribune, the Spanish international reflected on the incident that occurred while the squad traveled to a Champions League quarter-final fixture, during which three pipe bombs detonated alongside the vehicle.

Merino explained that shrapnel was found lodged in the headrest of his customary seat beside teammate Marc Bartra, who sustained wrist injuries. Merino avoided serious harm because he had moved to a different seat at the front of the bus to stretch his legs, which he believes ultimately saved his life.

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Mikel Merino: Arsenal star admits he is ‘lucky to be alive’ after life-threatening bus attack

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