New Gunners defender Pablo Mari sets sights on lengthy Arsenal stay

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Pablo Mari has only just joined Arsenal on loan, but he already has his sights set on an extended stay at the club.

The Spanish defender joined the club last month from Flamengo on a deal until the end of the season.

The north Londoners have an option-to-buy Mari, but will obviously see how he gets on between now and the end of the season.

If it were down to the player though, he’d be sticking around at the Emirates for years, just like some of his fellow countrymen.

Speaking to the official Arsenal website, he said: “There have been some wonderful Spanish players to play for Arsenal.

“Fabregas, Cazorla, Reyes… they’re all great Spanish players that have passed through this club.

“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 yet to make his debut for Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta declining to throw him straight into a matchday just days after signing.

The 26-year-old will hope to have some involvement against Newcastle United after the winter break.

TBR’s view – Mari’s intentions clear

It seems as though Mari would have preferred his move to Arsenal to have been permanent given his comments about wanting to stay for a long time.

That will likely endear him to supporters, but of course he must now prove he is actually good enough to play Premier League football.

Given the way Arsenal have defended this season, it might not be too long before he gets a run in the side, and it will soon become clear if he’ll be worth keeping.

Should he look fairly competent, then Arsenal will surely have no qualms about triggering his reported £8 million permanent clause (Sky Sports).