Former Gunner announces retirement at 34 | OneFootball

Former Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida has announced his retirement from professional football, confirming he’s set to take on a new challenge.

BOLTON, ENGLAND: Fran Merida of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with team mate Cesc Fabregas (R) during the Barclays Premier League match between Bolton Wanderers and Arsenal at the Reebok Stadium on January 17, 2010. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Former Gunner Fran Merida has retired from his football playing career at the age of 34, deciding to call time after his most recent spell with Spanish club Lugo.

Over the course of his senior career, Merida represented the likes of Arsenal, Real Sociedad, Atletico Madrid, and Braga, and he had recent spells in La Liga with Osasuna and Espanyol.

But he’s now hanging up his boots, confirming the news with a post on his Instagram page.

BOLTON, ENGLAND: Fran Merida of Arsenal in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Bolton Wanderers and Arsenal at the Reebok Stadium on January 17, 2010. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

“19 years ago, I left home in search of my dream and on this day 17 years ago, I achieved it, on September 25, 2007,” Merida wrote on Wednesday. “I have been privileged to have been able to live so many experiences thanks to the ball.

“To all the people I have crossed paths with during these years in all the clubs, thank you very much!

“I especially want to remember my parents, thank you for always letting me be myself and giving unconditional support, also to my sister Sara, for accompanying me to play the best games in the streets of the neighborhood.

“To Antonio López, for taking care of me like a brother, always being honest with me and helping me get up in my worst moment. To my wife Vanesa, for being the pillar of my life together with our daughters. And to you Grandpa, we did it!!

“Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I am now starting new challenges…”

Atletico Madrid’s newly signed Fran Merida of Spain poses during his official presentation after signing with the Atletico in Madrid on May 28, 2010. (Photo: DOMINIQUE FAGET/AFP via Getty Images)

Merida initially broke into senior football with Arsenal, making his debut in the 2007/08 season.

He went on to play 16 times for the Gunners, scoring against Bolton Wanderers in the Premier League and grabbing a goal and assist against Liverpool in the League Cup round-of-16.

After a loan to Real Sociedad, Merida ultimately decided not to renew his Arsenal deal, instead moving to Atletico Madrid.

Over 14 years later, he’s now set for a career change.