Monreal: I am very happy at Arsenal

The left-back insists that he is focused only on
repeating a positive 2014-15 campaign amid rumours
that he could return to Spain this summer and
welcomes the arrival of Petr Cech


Nacho Monreal insists that he is happy at Arsenal and is
ready to fight for his place in the team despite renewed
speculation surrounding his future.
The 29-year-old capitalised on Kieran Gibbs's ongoing fitness
issues and loss of form to establish himself as the Gunners'
first-choice left-back last season. Monreal made 39
appearances in all competitions and was selected ahead of
Gibbs for the FA Cup final win against Aston Villa.
The Basque-born Spain international has consistently been
linked with a return to his homeland, with Athletic his
keenest admirers, but says that his focus remains on
keeping his place in Arsene Wenger's starting XI.
"I'm very happy at Arsenal," Monreal, who is part of the
squad currently touring Singapore, told Goal. "Of course I
enjoyed playing in a lot of the games last season and that is
the target again - that is all I can say right now.
"When you play for Arsenal, you know they are one of the
biggest clubs in England but, here in Singapore, you see they
are also one of the biggest clubs in the world.
"The reception we get from the fans everywhere we go is
amazing to see for the players and we are very happy to be
here with them."
Arsenal have been quiet in the transfer market so far this
summer but their one major addition, former Chelsea
goalkeeper Petr Cech, has given the squad a big lift and
Monreal has been impressed by the way in which the Czech
Republic international has settled in.
"He has so much experience of playing at the top level for so
many years. He will bring confidence to the team," the
defender enthused.
"We have not played a game together yet but, in training, he
is absolutely amazing. You know from playing against him
how good he is but, to see him in training now every day,
you really see how good he is.
"He has integrated into the group very well. You can see he
is a great guy and also very intelligent as well."
Cech's first competitive game for Arsenal is likely to come
against his former club in the Community Shield at Wembley
in August.