New Arsenal signing Pablo Mari has revealed he wishes to remain at the Emirates stadium for quite some time and admitted that one of his role models is Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.

With several key players sidelined by injuries, the Gunners had no choice but to invest in the transfer market during the January window as Mikel Arteta brought in two defenders.

The Arsenal boss managed to secure the signing of Pablo Mari from Flamengo in a move which will see the centre-back remain on loan at the club for the rest of the season.

Following his north London switch, Mari has shown his admiration for Arteta and in his latest interview, the 26-year-old has revealed that the manager is a man he looks up to.

“There have been some wonderful Spanish players to play for Arsenal,” Mari told Arsenal Player. “Fabregas, Cazorla, Reyes… they’re all great Spanish players that have passed through this club.” the new signing said, as per Arsenal.com 

“One of those legends that we have with us now is Mikel. He was a very important player for Arsenal and now this is a new project for him as coach, but I think he’s going to repeat what he achieved when he was a player.

“Personally I look up to him and the career he had at Arsenal. That’s what I’ve been working for all these years.”

The Spaniard has also added that he wishes to remain at Arsenal for ‘a long time’ even though his loan move will be over in a few months.

“I’d love to be at Arsenal for a long time and I hope to give the Gunners some victories to celebrate again.”

Mari is currently with the Arsenal first team squad in Dubai as Arteta works on improving the fitness of his side, who have drawn their last four games in the Premier League.

Be the first to receive breaking news about Arsenal!