Aaron Ramsey and Santi Cazorla have both signed new contracts at Arsenal, and have expressed their belief that the club will soon be back amongst the silverware.
It has been well documented that the Gunners have failed to add to their trophy cabinet since lifting the FA Cup in 2005, but there is room for optimism this drought could come to an end this term. They are in with a chance of winning the famous trophy after progressing to the semi-final, where they will face holders Wigan Athletic, whilst they are just four points behind Chelsea in the Premier League title race with a game in hand.
The return of Ramsey, who has been sidelined with a thigh injury since Boxing Day, will certainly add to their chances. The 23-year-old was their standout performer before his setback, hitting 13 goals in 27 appearances, and the Wales international has also lifted spirits by signing a new long-term deal to keep him at the Emirates Stadium.
“I’m delighted to have signed a new contract,” he told the official club website. “I’ve been here for six years and I’m so happy. I think we’ve shown so far this season what we’re all about and the direction that this club wants to go in. I want to be a part of that, and to be a part of something special at Arsenal. We believe can achieve great things.”
Ramsey has been a shrewd addition for Arsene Wenger, who beat Manchester United to his signature when he lured him from Cardiff City in June 2008 for a bargain £4.8million. Another impressive signing has been that of Spanish international Cazorla who, whilst a more expensive acquisition at £15million, has proven value for money having been voted as the club Player of the Year during his debut campaign in England last term.
The former Malaga ace added: “I’m so happy to have signed a new contract. This club makes me very happy. I have had a great time since joining, and I think that we can compete for the top trophies in years to come and that’s important. I have already had lots of good moments here and hopefully there will be many more to come.”
A third Arsenal player, young Gedion Zelalem, has also signed a long-term deal with the club, which is his first professional contract. The 17-year-old made history earlier this season when he made his debut in the 4-0 FA Cup win over Coventry City, thereby becoming the first player born after Wenger took charge in September to play for the club.
