Santi Cazorla plays down talk of future Arsenal coaching role

Santi Cazorla has played down speculation that he is in line to join Mikel Arteta's coaching staff at former club Arsenal.

The Spanish midfielder spent six injury-ravished seasons at the Emirates Stadium before reviving his career with Villarreal in 2018.

Cazorla remains a popular figure at Arsenal and was recently touted as a possible contender to become Arteta's right-hand man, the pair having previously played together in North London.

However, the 35-year-old has revealed that he would rather take up a boardroom position when he hangs up his boots.

"I want to remain linked to football. I could be a coach, but I see myself more in a sporting director role," he told Cadena Ser.

"I have already made a decision [on my future], but right now is not the time to say anything.

"I have an idea of what I want, but in due course I will reveal what I've decided. Now is not the time because we have to be focused on competing.

"[The season being postponed] has helped me think, listen to my body, but I do not want to preempt you or to speculate too much."

Cazorla has registered eight goals and six assists in 24 La Liga appearances this term.