Cazorla’s remarkable stats against Burnley prove why Arsenal should offer new contract 1

Just as it seemed that Arsenal would fail to capitalise on Manchester City’s defeat at the hands of Spurs earlier today, Laurent Koscielny scored a late winner in controversial circumstances.

Not only was there a suspicion of offside in the lead to the goal, but the ball ricochet off Koscielny’s arm after Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain struck his shot toward goal.

Replays demonstrated that Burnley had every right to be aggrieved, but the goal stood and Arsenal came away from Turf More with a hard-fought three points.

However, while many of their star players failed to find their best form against Burnley, Santi Cazorla kept Arsenal moving forward with his brilliant passing ability.

In all, the 31-year-old Spaniard attempted 104 passes, only losing possession on two occasions, resulting in a remarkable pass completion rate of 98%.


Although the diminutive midfielder has been a central figure at the Emirates since joining from Malaga for £10 million in 2012, his Arsenal contract is due to expire next summer.

Moreover, the club appears to be in no rush to offer Cazorla a new deal, leading many to speculate on his future at the club. A few more performances like this though may force Arsenal’s hand.

Cazorla opened up not long ago about his situation in North London, saying all the same things he normally says. He is happy here, and that is the main thing. He would love to stay here, that’s another big thing.

Yet no discussions have started. Nor has there been any notice from the club that discussions will be starting.

Santi Cazorla’s contract is up in the summer, at which point he will be 32 years of age and, let’s be honest, past his prime. There is no second-guessing how important he has been this year, but the contract situation he is currently in is a sticky one.

Arsenal certainly doesn’t want to let him go on a free, but they have not yet made any indication that they want him to stay either.

While there is still plenty of time, ideally you’d like to see some sort of nod one way or the other.

It is likely that Arsenal may be eyeing up how well Jack Wilshere does over and Bournemouth or how Aaron Ramsey can acclimate once he is back. The sad reality is that at some point, Cazorla has to move on and someone has to take his place.

There is no reason to rush that, but unfortunately, with the contract situation the way it is, there is certainly a rush is necessary.