A technique for fabricating an MEA for a fuel cell that is prepared as a catalyst-coated diffusion media (CCDM). The MEA includes a diffusion media layer having a microporous layer. A catalyst layer is deposited on the microporous layer so that it covers its entire surface. An ionomer layer is sprayed on the catalyst layer. A perfluorinated membrane is sandwiched between one CCDM at the anode side of the MEA and another CCDM at the cathode side of the MEA where the ionomer spray layers face the membrane.