Arsenal FC midfielder Santi Cazorla has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Atletico Madrid, insisting that he is happy at the Emirates.
The 30-year-old, who has become an integral part of this Arsenal team since his arrival in 2012, has been linked with a move back to Spain next season. Atletico Madrid are believed to be interested in signing the former Villarreal midfielder, but Cazorla has dismissed those rumours stating that he intends to fulfil the remaining two years in his contract.
a I’m very happy at Arsenal and in the Premier League. I feel loved and valued by both the team and supporters.
a Any news stories about me and Atletico Madrid are false. Currently I am just focused on Arsenal, I have two more years on my contract here and I hope to complete them.a a The Arsenal midfielder said.
Arsene Wenger has used Cazorla in a more deep-lying role last season. Cazorla was partnered alongside Francis Coquelin at the base of the midfield and the Spaniard has prospered in his new role. Cazorla produced some memorable performances from the center of the park as Arsenal went on to win their second FA cup title in as many seasons.
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The Gunners are in the market for a new midfielder and have been linked with both Morgan Schneiderlin and Geoffrey Kondogbia. A new addition to the squad might mean that Cazorla will once again be played in a more attacking role, alongside Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.
Arsenal made a slow start to their Premier League campaign last season, this once again they failed to put up a sustainable title challenge. Cazorla believes that his side needs to be more consistent next season if they want to compete with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City.
a If we want to fight for the Premier League we must keep the level from the second half of last season.
a I think that’s what we need to fight against Chelsea, City and United, the teams that will be stronger next season.a a Cazorla added.
The midfielder also hopes that his club can once again regain their status among the Europea s elite and emulate the standards of Barcelona.
a Hopefully Arsenal can in future reach as high as Barcelona. That’s the goal.
a Barcelona is the reference to the rest of world football and all of us want to be closer to them.a a He said in his interview.