Arsenal legend Robert Pires backs Santi Cazorla to shine for Gunners

Robert Pires believes Santi Cazorla will prove to be a great signing for Arsenal and is backing the Spaniard to adapt quickly to the rigours of the Premier League.

The 27-year-old made his first top-flight appearance in the Gunners’ goalless draw against Sunderland on Saturday after completing a £12m move from Malaga earlier in August.

And former attacking midfielder Pires is backing Cazorla to become a key player for Arsène Wenger following the departures of Robin van Persie and Alex Song.

“Santi called me when the offer from the club arrived and I told him that it was the perfect club for him,” Pires told Arsenal’s website.

“The way the team plays will suit him perfectly and he is the kind of player Arsène loves too.

“He is a very exciting player, very gifted technically with both feet. He has an impressive creative touch and he can play in the centre or on the wings.

“His vision and the quality of his passing is brilliant but he can also take people on. Despite still being quite young, he has big experience with the Spanish national team and has also played in the Champions League.

“Finally, he has a very good mentality and is a real team player. He will need a bit of time to settle but I’m convinced he will adapt very quickly and will be a great signing for Arsenal.”

Cazorla scored nine goals in 38 appearances for Malaga last season after completing a €21m (£16.5m) move from Villarreal in July 2011.

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