5 long-term injury absentees who will be back with a vengeance next season

2) Santi Cazorla

Cazorla’s injury coincided with Arsenal’s slump in form

I’ve been an ardent fan of Cazorla since his Villarreal days. Never blessed with a lot of pace, Cazorla has had to make sure every movement of his was precise, every dribble beautifully timed and every pass impeccably orchestrated to be considered as one of the best in his position. And the fact that he’s delivered that on a consistent basis for every club he’s turned out for since, says a lot about his talents as a player.

Cazorla had firmly established himself at the heart of Arsenal’s midfield before his injury setback sent Arsenal rollicking down the table and well away from any potential title challenge. If Granit Xhaka settles in at Arsenal, expect him and Cazorla to form a fearsome duo in the center of midfield for the Gunners.