Wenger: We won’t sign January replacement for Cazorla

Joe Williams

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that he will not be signing a replacement for Santi Cazorla in January with the midfielder facing a spell on the sidelines.

The Spaniard is to have an ankle operation in Sweden next week and could face up to three months out as he tries to recover.

Cazorla last played for the Gunners in mid-October when he injured his Achilles against Ludogorets as they won 6-0 in the Champions League.

When asked whether the club would looking to sign reinforcements for Cazorla’s position, Wenger replied: “No, not really. Firstly, we have the numbers and quality in midfield. Secondly in January you won’t necessarily find another Cazorla.”

And Wenger, speaking ahead of their match against West Ham on Saturday, has said that Cazorla wants to get out this “vicious cycle”.

“For me its very bad news,” Wenger added.

“I always try and avoid surgery, it creates a lot of anxiety and rehab.

“This time it’s unfortunate that we have to draw that conclusion. He’s out for at least two months, but that could go up to three.

“Santi is desperate to play, he’s only happy on the football pitch.

“He wants to get out of this vicious cycle of being in and out of the side.”