Startled runaway star Merida hits back.


Fran Merida plans to appeal a ruling by the Spanish courts which has mandated the Arsenal player to pay 3.5 Million Euros to FC Barcelona for what amounted to breach of contract in certain terms, after the teenager escaped to London to pitch tent with Arsenal FC. Merida had earlier committed to Barca, but then signed for Arsenal afterwards. The Spanish star has since played in his official debut for the Gunners. Joseba Diaz's name has come up once again in the controversial deal. Diaz is the current agent of Cesc Fabregas, another player poached in his infant years at FC Barcelona. A formal response from Fran Merida is being awaited. Meanwhile Arsenal has offered to pay Barca the 3.5 Million Euros for Merida's mischief and adventurous efforts.

Merida's case finally settled after heated debate.


An independent tribunal in Spain ruled that FC Barcelona will be paid a 3.5 Million Euro compensation for the swoop on Fran Merida by Arsenal FC. Merida had signed a pre-contract agreement with them when he was 14, but quit the Catalan club days before his 16th birthday. He then joined Arsenal as a trainee as soon as he was 16. At 17, Fran Merida made his Arsenal first-team debut last month as a substitute in the 2-0 Carling Cup triumph over Newcastle United. Arsenal has offered to pay the fine, as the Gunners believe the Spanish star has the potential to become like his countryman, Cesc Fabregas, who is making waves at Arsenal after growing up in FC Barcelona youth team.