Santi Cazorla says that it did not take him long to decide to sign a new deal with Villarreal.
Midfielder ignores Real interest to sign new contract
Santi Cazorla has admitted that it did not take him long to decide to sign a new deal with Villarreal.
On Tuesday, Cazorla had claimed that he would find it difficult to turn down a move to Real Madrid, if the Spanish champions firmed up their interest with a bid.
However, after holding talks with Villarreal, Cazorla has opted to ignore Real's overtures in order to sign a new six-year contract at El Madrigal.
"I am very happy to stay here because I consider this club to be my home," Cazorla told reporters.
Best choice
"What was most important was that the club showed that I am important to them. I did not have to think for long about things.
"I really appreciate all the effort the club made. I did not delay my decision because it was the best choice for me."
Villarreal president Fernando Roig was also delighted with the news and was proud to have been able to fend off interest from Madrid in order to keep Cazorla.
"He is a super important player for us," said Roig. "We have all worked hard to ensure he stays. It is a great feeling to keep a player like him here."
Meanwhile, Villarreal midfielder Robert Pires will miss the club's opening game of the season due to a thigh injury.
The former Arsenal ace picked up the problem in training and he will sit out Sunday's Primera Liga opener away to Osasuna.
