Santi Cazorla eyes possible Arsenal return in coaching role after retirement

Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla is considering a return to the club in a coaching capacity after retiring from professional football at age 41, according to Football London. Cazorla, who spent six years at Arsenal between 2012 and 2018, announced his retirement following a stint with his childhood club Real Oviedo. He has also played in England, Spain and Qatar, and captained the Spanish national team in June 2019.

Cazorla told Sky Sports in 2024 that he holds a "very special affection for Arsenal" and acknowledges the fans’ affection for him. He revealed that he and current Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta have discussed a possible future role, though his focus at the time was on his playing career with Oviedo. Arteta had previously expressed trust in Cazorla’s qualities, noting the door remains open for his return.

Now that his playing days are over, speculation grows about Cazorla rejoining Arsenal’s backroom staff. The move would reunite him with Arteta and add a experienced Spanish voice to the coaching setup. For Nigerian fans who remember his creativity and loyalty during his Arsenal years, the potential return represents a nostalgic link to the club’s recent past.

Would you welcome Cazorla’s return as a coach, or do you think Arsenal should look elsewhere for new coaching talent?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/07/02/transfer-santi-cazorla-in-shock-return-to-arsenal/