While in France, Meriel also played for US Jeanne d'Arc Carquefou competing in the lower leagues, before returning home at 18.

Upon his return home Meriel, like many of his national team colleagues, was forced to get another job and become a semi-professional athlete.

Metiel earned a bachelor in economy and administration, becoming an auditor for consulting group KPMG.

[3] On the Confederations Cup, Meriel had his first cap as the starting goalkeeper for Tahiti's in the squad's final game against Uruguay in Recife.

While Tahiti lost 8-0, Meriel was applauded once he saved a penalty kick from the eventually sent-off Andres Scotti.