Fran Merida Signs With Athletico Madrid: Should Arsenal Be Worried?

Just as Arsenal fans were celebrating the capture of Marouane Chamakh from French club Bordeaux, Arsenal were losing a very promising midfielder in Fran Merida to Athletico Madrid.

Earlier today, Athletico confirmed the signing of Spanish midfielder Merida from Arsenal on a free transfer. He decided to join the list of stars who the Spanish League have succeeded in signing in the last few years.

For Merida, it is understandable because Arsenal have so many youngsters who can play in midfield and first team appearances where limited for the very creative midfielder.

He flew to Spain, passed a medical, and signed a five-year deal with them, rejecting Arsenal's offer even though he was highly regarded by fans and manager Arsene Wenger.

The former Barcelona youth product who signed as a free agent in 2007 will help Athletico Madrid try to defend their Europa League crown and maybe finish higher in the La Liga next season.

Merida was supposed to be heir apparent to Cesc Fabregas's throne, but might just get two games against him each season should they both move back home.

In Arsenal's current roster, they have Diaby, Nasri, Wilshere, Lansbury, Fabregas, Ramsey, and Denilson who can play in midfield.

Nasri needs to get more games as a central midfielder/attacking midfielder and his wish may be granted if Fabregas leaves. He has enormous talent and can make things happen from midfield (remember Porto?).

As for Wilshere, maybe another loan will do him good, probably to Blackpool (he'll get more time) or West Ham.

Arsene Wenger will be disappointed that Merida didn't get to show what he is really made up of in an Arsenal shirt but would look at Wilshere and probably hope for the best.

Whatever Fran Merida does in the future, we wish him good luck and hope he fulfills his potential as a quality midfielder.

In Arsene We Trust.