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'Santi success is an inspiration for me'

Nacho Monreal

Nacho Monreal will take inspiration from Santi Cazorla as he embarks on his Arsenal career.

The Spanish left back completed his move from Malaga to north London this week - less than six months after Cazorla made the same journey.

The playmaker is already a fans' favourite at Emirates Stadium and it was Cazorla's glowing recommendation which helped convince Monreal to swap La Liga for the Premier League.

 "Yes, I spoke to Santi, we had a long conversation about things," Monreal told Arsenal Player.

"I asked how things were here and he only had very positive things to say. He said that Arsenal was a massive club, the people are great and it’s really just a big family. He only had good things to say. I am sure we can be successful this season and I am really looking forward to the challenge.

"Yes it does [help that Cazorla has been a success]. It helps that I’ve been able to share a dressing room with him at Malaga, that everything’s gone well and that the people here have been incredible in welcoming me.

"As there’s a familiar face in Santi, I’m a lot calmer about things. Having shared a dressing room with someone who’s already made this journey is a good feeling. Now it’s my turn and I can’t wait to follow in his footsteps."

Monreal and Cazorla are the most recent additions to a growing Spanish contingent at Arsenal that includes Mikel Arteta, Ignasi Miquel, Hector Bellerin and Jon Toral. But Monreal's head was not turned merely by the presence of so many compatriots.

"To be honest, when I was given the option to come here I went for it because it’s a massive club," he said. "I didn’t even have to think about it.

"Of course, there are Spanish players here and a lot of youngsters, which this club is known to attract. I’m delighted to be able to train and play with those guys and I hope my stay here will be the best it possibly can.

"I’ve watched loads of Arsenal games and there have been legends that have played for this club. I know everything I can from watching the television and from what Santi has told me in this relatively short period of time."

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