Cazorla plays down Atletico links

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has moved to dispel rumours that he is
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set for a move back to La Liga with Atletico Madrid.

The 28-year-old joined the Premier League side from Malaga at the start of last season and enjoyed a fine debut campaign, netting 12 goals in 38 league appearances.

However, despite having only been with Arsenal for a short time, reports have suggested he is seeking a move back to Spain, which he has denied.

“Much has been made the subject of Atletico Madrid, but I am very good in London,” he said.

“I have a contract with Arsenal and I start training on Monday.

“We’ll see when I come back to La Liga – it is very difficult right now.”

Cazorla was also a part of his country’s FIFA Confederations Cup campaign – which saw their 29-game unbeaten streak broken in the final defeat to Brazil – and has since been recovering while Arsenal were on tour in Asia.

The club, who won all four games on the pre-season trip, have made just one signing in the close season so far in 20-year-old Frenchman Yaya Sanago.