Skip to content

Cazorla hopes to return from injury vs. Manchester City

Reuters

Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla is optimistic about his chances of appearing in his first match since November when the north London side visits Manchester City Sunday, but acknowledged that manager Arsene Wenger will have the final say.

The Spain international, who has been out of action since November because an injured knee, is encouraged by his return to fitness after featuring with Spain's under-21 team, and hopes to help Arsenal during its quest to secure a Champions League spot.

"I'm very happy to be back, it's a great feeling after five months," Cazorla told the team's website ahead of Sunday's game

"Of course I want to try to play with the first team at the weekend against Man City. (Arsene Wenger) has the decision, I know it's difficult for him and for me. But I work hard every day to try and play at the weekend."

While the team's chances of catching north London rivals Tottenham appears thin with just two matches remaining, Arsenal - who currently enjoys a three-point edge on City - could clinch a berth in the Champions League with a victory at the Etihad Stadium.

Cazorla, however, remains hopeful Arsenal can surpass Tottenham in the table to extend the club's long run of finishing above Spurs.

"We need to win those two games, we want to finish in the top four. We have to fight until the end to finish second," Cazorla said. "Of course I want to play in those games."

The 31-year-old added that he is hopeful about being named to the Spanish national squad ahead of the European Championship in France this summer, but admits his extended time away from the game could force him to watch from home.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox