For hardcore football fans who are even familiar with sports pundits and off-field personalities in the game, Paul Merson would undoubtedly be a familiar name. The former English Forward has been a mainstay in Sky Sports for several years, and his role as a pundit has made him a prominent name even after his playing years.
Most fans however, are largely unaware of the fact that he came through Arsenal's youth academy, and went on to have a fine career with the Gunners. So let us now look back at Paul Merson's time with Arsenal.
A bright start with the Gunners
It was in the year of 1984 that a young Paul Merson joined Arsenal as an apprentice. This was followed by a loan spell to Brentford, after which he returned to the London club.
His debut eventually came on 22th November 1986, and he received his first opportunity to shine against Manchester City.
This was only the beginning of a rising star, as Merson went on to establish himself as a key figure in George Graham's successful Arsenal side of the late 1980s. By the 1988–89 season, the English became a regular on the right wing for Arsenal. It was an unforgettable season for the player and club as well, with Arsenal beating Liverpool on the final match day to become League Champions.
Merson was on a golden period at the time, as he ten times that season, made his debut for the England U21 team, and was voted PFA Young Player of the Year.
Peak years
The year of 1991 saw the very best of Merson in an Arsenal shirt, as he finished the campaign with a personal best 13 goals. Those goals were absolutely key for the club's success, as they won yet another league title.
Further greatest awaited Merson and Arsenal, as they won a FA Cup and League Cup double in 1993. Merson was especially instrumental in the League Cup final, as he was one of the goalscorers in the final tie against Sheffield United.
A year later, Arsenal and Merson extended their greatness to the European stage as they won the 1993–94 European Cup Winners' Cup. Their victory against Parma in the finals saw them achieve European glory for the first time in 24 years.
Off-field issues
1994 was a dark year for Merson, as his career came to a halt due to alcohol, Cocaine, and gambling addictions. This resulted in the player attending a 3-month rehabilitation program, and only returning to the Arsenal side by February 1995.
Arsenal had gone through major changes upon his return, as manager George Graham was sacked and replaced by Stewart Houston as caretaker manager. The Gunners managed to reach yet another Cup Winners' Cup final in a row, but lost on this occasion to Real Zaragoza.
Final years
Merson was yet again a first-team regular during the 1995–96 campaign, with Arsenal now being managed by Bruce Rioch. He continued to keep his Arsenal starting berth even during the 1996–97 season. The 1996-97 campaign was one of immense historical significance for the club, as a certain Arsene Wenger had been appointed as their manager.
Arsenal finished the 96-97 league campaign in third position, and this was also the end of Merson's time with the Gunners.
In a move that was surprising at the time, Merson decided to reject Wenger's contract extension offer and join a relegated Middlesbrough side. A better payment and longer contract at Middlesbrough were the primary reasons for his decision.
Thus after a magical 12 years with the Gunners, Paul Merson left his beloved club as one of the finest to have come from their academy.
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