Source: Team_Talk
Merida reveals Wenger gratitude
Fran Merida says he would be "eternally grateful" to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger after being presented as an Atletico Madrid player on Friday.[LNB] The Europa League winners confirmed the capture of the 20-year-old midfielder on a four-year contract on Tuesday, and he undertook his first duties as an Atletico player by speaking to the press at the Vicente Calderon today.[LNB]"There are circumstances in life," he said. "I was very comfortable at Arsenal, but with the interest of Atletico I did not hesitate.[LNB]"I talked to my agent and I told him to deal with such an offer. "[LNB]Merida had been at Arsenal since 2006, having previously been part of the youth set-up at home-town club Barcelona, but his deal with the Gunners was due to expire on June 30.[LNB]"Wenger looked after me and my family since I arrived in London," Merida continued. "I have a very good relationship with him.[LNB]"I am and I will be eternally grateful.[LNB]"Obviously he is not pleased with my departure, but he wished me luck and behaved like a gentleman."[LNB]Merida expects his game to be ideally suited to the Primera Division.[LNB]He added on the club's website: "The English league is more physical - very strong players with a very direct game. The Spanish league has a lot of quality and will benefit my game.[LNB]"I am proud to wear the red and white shirt. I will give everything for the team."
