First of all, agree or disagree with the merger it by no means is a debacle. They are actually doing things the right way this time around.
As to the the comments of the United Club agent, why would you even believe the statements of an airline customer service agent?!?! They rarely know the truth as to whats going on and seem to enjoy spreading rumors and unfounded information. Same applies to just about any airline employee (regardless of the airline).
I highly doubt anything will change until the 3rd quarter when they airlines actually "merge".