Admit it. Go on, admit it… You’re like a kid on Christmas Eve, aren’t you? I know I am.
Yes, all jokes about Santi Claus aside, confirmation that Arsenal have completed the signing of the Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla for Malaga probably comes as welcome relief for us all. But it also means that, for me anyway, next Saturday’s season opener at home to Sunderland can’t come quick enough. Have you got your ticket for that one yet? No? Tough. I’ll be there celebrating Mr James Craddock‘s birthday. Hopefully we’ll also be celebrating as a new look Arsenal attack runs riot against the Wearsiders. A word of caution though. Arsenal were widely expected to hit the ground running when the new stadium opened for business in 2006. Instead Martin O’Neill’s visiting team were a late equaliser, from Gilberto of all people, away from spoiling the party. We all know how much Martin O’Neill loves Arsene, so I’m sure he’ll be looking forward to popping our balloons next weekend.
Still, though. Whatever happens with Robin van Persie, the recruitment of Giroud, Podolski and Cazorla has to go down as a serious statement of intent from Arsene and the board. I wonder, now, if Robin might feel a little bit silly in making the statement that he made, but it’s a little bit early to be thumbing noses at the Dutchman. Not least of all because he is, on paper at least, still the captain of the club. I don’t want to dwell on this point too much, because I had no intention of writing about van Persie today of all days, but if he was to make a u-turn on his future, how would you feel about it? I ask because, when all is said and done, he’s still a fantastic footballer. If his statement turns out to be nothing more than a fit of pique, and he is reassured by this summer’s recruitment, then what? For the record, I don’t think this is the case. I believe the story about him refusing to have his photo done and I don’t think that speaks to a man who sees his future in north London. Although, if he were to move to Manchester City, perhaps he would soon end up in the wrong part of north London! What seems more likely is that Arsenal are just waiting for the right offer. And perhaps the right club to make it.
Anyway….
Cazorla. 45 appearances for the best national side in the world, la seleccion, since 2008. 2008 is, of course, the year that Spain won the first of their three consecutive major trophies. So Cazorla’s regular presence in the side, a side that can call on some of the greatest players of their generation speaks to a man of some quality. Nine goals in 38 games for Malaga last season speaks to a man who will also score goals. I don’t know much about Cazorla, I admit, but those that do are certain that Arsenal have a little gem on their hands. And, at 5″6, perhaps “little” is an apt word. This piece, by Tim Stannard, doesn’t just tell you about about a player of incredible technique (and let’s be honest, we expect nothing less from a Spanish midfielder) but also attests to his drive and tenacity. I’m not sure that these are qualities we would associate with, oooh… someone like Jose Antonio Reyes, for example. For what it’s worth, I have no problems with Cesc’s tenacity- the guy took a penalty with a broken leg, for God’s sake!
That wasn’t a gratuitous reference to our former captain, by the way. On signing, Cazorla said that he had spoken with Cesc who told him how big Arsenal were and that he would “be very happy here”. Also, speaking up for the Arsenal was super Robert Pires, a former teammate of Cazorla’s at Villarreal, he really “encouraged” the Spaniard to sign for us. I love that. People will always talk about Cesc and how he left the club, but I think he will carry the club where he became a man in his heart for the rest of his life. Of course, if Cesc then starts tapping Cazorla up for his new buddies, then I might feel a little bit different! For now, Cazorla is happy and excited. So am I.
Speaking to Arsenal.com, Le Boss says,
“Santi Cazorla is a great signing for us. He is a player with good experience at both club and international level, who will add significant quality to our squad.
“He is a versatile, attacking midfield player who can play comfortably on either side of the pitch or centrally. He has good pace, is technically gifted and will be a huge asset to Arsenal Football Club.
We are delighted that he is joining us.”
“He is a versatile, attacking midfield player who can play comfortably on either side of the pitch or centrally. He has good pace, is technically gifted and will be a huge asset to Arsenal Football Club.
We are delighted that he is joining us.”
It will certainly be interesting to see where this “versatile” player ends up deployed. History tells us that he may very well start life on the flanks currently patrolled by Walcott, Gervinho (when he’s not doubling as a centre forward) and the Ox before moving inside. Either way, I can’t wait to find out.
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