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What’s the rumour?
Santi Cazorla is set to head back to Spain this summer according to reports in Spain (via Metro). The Arsenal midfielder's contract at the club expires at the end of this season and will be available for free.
The Spaniard is just recovering from his injury and started training last month. He has been out for 18-months because of a long-running Achilles problem and fears were that he would never be able to play again.
In case you didn’t know...
Rumours suggested that Cazorla was offered a player-coach role by Arsenal. He was offered to be a part of the team Arteta is set to reportedly have at the club.
Wenger has left the club after 22 years and will need replacing.
The heart of the matter
Former Villarreal player, Marcos Senna was on TV when the reporter told viewers that Santi was heading back to the club he made debut for – 15 years ago!
TV reporter Mónica Marchante said, “It is all-but-official that, although it has not all been completely confirmed by the club, Santi Cazorla will spend pre-season next season – well, this July as we are already there – with Villarreal.” (via Mirror)
It is still not clear if he will be just training at the club or joining them one permanent deal.
Rumour probability: 7/10
Villarreal are Cazorla's boyhood club and it won't be a surprise if he moves there. It'll be the final move of his career and his final chance of playing top-flight football.
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Author’s Take
Santi Cazorla is one of the most talented footballers who just didn't get the recognition he deserves. It's unfortunate how his Arsenal career has come to an end and there is no doubt that he could have been the one to push them into the Top 4 if he was fully fit.
