EPL: FA Cup liberates Arsenal - Carzola
The Spaniard says the squad were conscious of the
growing wait for silverware, but is optimistic about
the new campaign after last term's triumph and the
arrival of Alexis Sanchez
Arsenal playmaker Santi Cazorla believes the
Gunners’ FA Cup triumph last season has relieved
the pressure on the squad ahead of the 2014-15
campaign.
The north Londoners claimed a 3-2 extra-time
victory over Hull City at Wembley Stadium in May,
bringing to an end a nine-year wait for silverware.
The Spain international admits the side had felt
inhibited and burdened by the club’s trophy drought
in previous seasons, but is confident they can play
with greater freedom following last term’s success.
“I think it has changed the pressure on us heading
into the new season,” the former Villarreal and
Malaga man told Marca.
“It liberated us in a certain way. The team, after so
many years without winning anything, were aware
of the tension at important times.”
Arsenal have been busy over the summer, sealing
deals for Alexis Sanchez and Mathieu Debuchy,
with further business expected, and Cazorla is
excited by the prospect of playing alongside the
Chilean.
“I like his arrival. He's a top-level footballer who
surely would've had an awful lot of offers on the
table and the fact that he has chosen Arsenal is
great for everybody,” the Spaniard continued.
“I am convinced that he's going to bring great things
to the team.”
The signing of the former Barcelona attacker
increases the competition for places in a squad
already packed with talent, but Cazorla has backed
himself to cling onto a first-team place.
“I hope I can bring many things, although it will be
difficult to get in the side!” he quipped.
“There are so many players and all at a great level:
[Mesut] Ozil, [Aaron] Ramsey, [Jack] Wilshere,
[Theo] Walcott, and now Alexis too. In any case, it's
important that the group is competitive. That will
mean we all raise our game.”
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