Arsenal Star Confirms North London Stay
Arsene Wenger has an update on Japan winger Ryo Miyaichi's future
Santi Cazorla has denied reports linking him with a move to Spanish side Atlético Madrid. The Spain international joined Arsenal last summer and has stressed he is happy in north London and will resume training with the first team on Monday.
The 28-year-old was given extended leave by manager Arsene Wenger, following his involvement in June's Confederations Cup. The playmaker had an explosive impact on the Premier League last year, scoring 12 goals and creating 11 more in his debut season in English top-flight football.
"Much has been made the subject of Atletico Madrid, but I am very good in London. I have a contract with Arsenal and I start training on Monday. We'll see when I come back to La Liga - it is very difficult right now," the former Malaga player stated.
In addition, both clubs have been equally emphatic in denying any report of an agreement with the La Liga outfit, who beat Tottenham and Wenger to Spain striker David Villa; the former Barcelona man joined the Vicente Calderon side earlier this month.
Nevertheless, Cazorla did admit he was impressed by Atlético capturing Villa. He believes the former Europa League winners have made an excellent acquisition.
"I'm very happy for him because he's had a difficult year at Barcelona with the injury, and now he can enjoy football again," Cazorla explained.
Arsen Wenger on Ryo Miyaichi
Meanwhile, Wenger has revealed he will not send Japanese youngster Ryo Miyaichi on loan this season. The 20-year-old injury-prone winger played in the club's pre-season match against the Urawa Red Diamonds.
"I believe he is in a position where he needs to play to have a good chance of competing at the top level. At the moment he will stay in the squad. Should we buy more players I will have to reassess the situation," the Gunners' manager said.
"He has done well, you could see that he is finding his sharpness back. He was better here than in the other game [against Nagoya Grampus]. He is fighting for his position. I like his game," he added.
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