Having become the latest in a line of Spanish playmakers to join us, Dani Ceballos is determined to emulate the success of his compatriots in north London.
Our new No 8 grew up watching Cesc Fabregas, and was on the opposition side when Santi Cazorla scored twice in a 2-2 draw with Real Madrid last season.
“When I knew I was joining the club I looked at the Spanish players that had played here in the past,” Ceballos told Arsenal.com. “I think Santi Cazorla played some amazing football here and Cesc was the captain for a long time.
“I’d like to follow in their footsteps because they made history at the club and I’m here to help this club to grow and – most importantly – to work hard from the very first moment.
“I think Cazorla is one of Spain’s best midfielders. I’d love to play with him one day – although that would be tricky because there’s a big age difference between us.
“The level Cazorla played at last year after coming back from a really serious injury that just wouldn’t go away… I really think you have to take your hat off to him because I don’t think many players would be able to do what he has done.
“Cesc has always been a player with real character and pride inside. I think you have to have a huge sense of responsibility to be the captain of a club as big as Arsenal and he never faltered.
“He always took responsibility at Arsenal, Barcelona and with Spain and he’s always stepped up at the key moments at all of his clubs.”
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