Former Arsenal fan-favourite and a cult hero of the club Santi Cazorla has expressed his desire to return to Arsenal in a coaching role alongside his compatriot Mikel Arteta. The 35-year-old, who was released by the North Londoners in 2018 after his injury hell, played alongside the current Gunners gaffer for four seasons.
The former European Championship winner with Spain in 2008 and 2012 is now back in Spain with his former club Villarreal and has been pretty impressive for the Yellow submarine this campaign.
The 81-time capped Spanish international insisted after Arteta replaced axed Unai Emery that his firmer team-mate has everything he needs to succeed at Arsenal.
What Cazorla Said?
Cazorla said at the time, “Arteta deserves to be the boss.”
“He was always a leader in the dressing room. It was the right decision to put him in as manager; it made sense and he has everything you need for the job. I hope he takes Arsenal up the table.”
The two-time FA Cup winner has now admitted that he wants to go back to the Emirates. This is once he hangs up his boots.
What Cazorla Told Vamos Via The Metro
“I do not know what my legacy is [at Arsenal]. You have to ask the fans, but I want to thank everyone. I do not know what I will do next, maybe a coach, maybe a Sports Director, but I would like to come back.”
Prior to the coronavirus pandemic halting football, Cazorla won back his place in the Spanish national team. He was set be named in their Euro 2020 squad even at the age of 35.
With the tournament now pushed back a year, the ex-Malaga maestro, who spent six years with Arsenal from 2012, has conceded it is now unlikely he will play in another major tournament again on the international stage. That was a huge disappointment for him, as he looked in good form and read to go.
Talking About His Chance To Play In The Euros, He Added
The Euro 2012 winner said: “It is a bit frustrating because I had the dream of going to the European Championship. I am aware that I am already 35 years old and that it is more difficult every day to be in a group as good as the Spanish team. It has been delayed a year and I am aware that it is much more complicated for me. I was enjoying it a lot and I hope to continue doing it, if the competition resumes, until the end of the season. Next year I will decide and see what my body asks of me.”
Cazorla played a total of 180 games for Arsenal during his six-year stay at the Emirates. The creative midfielder became one of the most adored players of the club.
He suffered some terrible injuries during his time at the Emirates. However, he gave his best every time he was on the pitch. Blessed with magical skills on the ball and incredible technical abilities, he was a pretty versatile player. He was also very effective across any role in midfield.
