Debut season review: Why Santi Cazorla has flourished for Arsenal

28-year-old Santi Cazorla has had a magnificent debut season for Arsenal – with 12 goals and 10 assists for the Gunners at the time of writing, along with his overall contribution and impact, has seen the former Malaga man tipped as one of the best signings of the summer as well as one of Arsene Wenger’s best ever signings in his managerial reign. But what has made Cazorla such a brilliant purchase for the Gunners? Three things: his quick adaptation, his creative license and Arsenal’s style of play.

Quick adaptation

Some players take time to settle into a new team – especially if it’s a new country and league, however, Cazorla has adapted instantly in a remarkable manner. Much credit has to go to Spaniards, former Arsenal captain, Cesc Fabregas and current vice-captain, Mikel Arteta who have given the Spain international tips and advice, helping in Cazorla’s overall transition to English football.

“I have English lessons two days a week with the teacher that Cesc had and I feel very comfortable. Arteta has really helped. From now on he has to do less because I won’t need him so much and I don’t want to drive him crazy,” states Cazorla.

In his first competitive game for Arsenal against Sunderland, Cazorla played as if he had played for the Gunners his whole career, fitting in to the “Cesc role” and winning the crowd over instantaneously.

Arsene Wenger’s thoughts on his quick transition were – “I believe [Cazorla] convinced everybody that he is an Arsenal player from the first game on. It is bit easier in midfield because you touch the ball more and maybe coordination with the other players is less important.”

Due to the fact that Cazorla has adapted quickly, he’s been able to exert his influence onto the team which leads us to the next point as to why Cazorla has flourished – his creative license.

Creative license

Another reason why Cazorla has been such a success is the creative license he has in the side – one he particularly thrives at.

With a role similar to Fabregas’s, the little Spaniard can dictate play and be the creative hub of the team which has certainly helped Wenger’s side at times this season.

“I have adapted very well to Arsenal’s style and the responsibility that they have given me since the first day. It is what I have always liked and to play in the position of [playmaker] is where I have always wanted to play. I feel really good with the team, because I have great teammates at my side who have helped me a lot,” as stated by Cazorla.

Arsenal’s style of play

Lastly, Arsenal’s style of play or “Wengerball” has helped Cazorla as it suits the type of football he is used to playing.

“It hasn’t been difficult adapting to Arsenal’s style of play or even to the Premier League. It is a bit different to La Liga in Spain but I’ve adapted very well and I think Arsenal’s style of play has made it a lot easier for me. Arsenal’s style of football is very similar to the teams I’ve played in before. The focus on pass and move, and keeping possession, suits my playing style. That’s why I adapted so well. Arsène has instilled a club philosophy at Arsenal of keeping the ball, making sure the team builds up play from the back and doesn’t play route one football. It’s definitely been an important factor for me.”

Cazorla will definitely be hoping to build on a successful first season heading into the 2013/2014 season as he is undoubtedly in the prime of his career.