Arsenal’s new superstar: Santi Cazorla to give Gunners much-needed creativity

Arsenal have announced the signing of Spain international, Santi Cazorla, who has expressed his excitement at signing a long-term deal with the Emirates’ side. The attacking midfielder could well play an important role in getting Arsene Wenger’s men back into Premier League contention. Although Robin van Persie has expressed a willingness to leave Arsenal, the additions of Cazorla, Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski should have the club’s fans confident of an attacking side in 2012-13.

Cazorla promises to give Arsenal something extra that will make them a more dangerous opponent next term. Wenger’s men are blessed with pace and dynamism in the form of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Theo Walcott, but a deft touch in midfield in the form of the Spaniard will be welcome. Jack Wilshere’s eye for a pass was at times missing last season, and Cazorla certainly has creativity and guile in shades.

Arsenal have been quick to act on Malaga’s documented financial problems, and snapped Cazorla up before other sides could get a look in. The signing will not be a household name for English football fans, but the playmaker’s pedigree has been proven in his homeland. The 27-year-old played a key role in the Andalusian team’s transformation from a middle-table La Liga side into a top four team, and impressed in his first season at La Romeleda. Although Cazorla was not given a chance to impress at Euro 2012, as David Silva and Cesc Fabregas were given the nod by Vincente Del Bosque in Ukraine and Poland, his ability at international level has been proven. Cazorla has played his part in La Roja’s success over the last four years, making 45 appearances for the senior Spain side since 2008.

What Cazorla will offer Arsenal is a killer pass, the ability to control possession and an intricacy that will impress the Emirates faithful. If Cazorla can link up with his fellow new signings and the other Gunners’ midfield men, the north Londoners will be a tough opponent to contain this term, and the Spaniard could well be a Premier League star in the making.