Cazorla dismisses return to Arsenal to be part of Arteta's coaching setup

Santi Cazorla is unlikely to join his former team-mate Mikel Arteta in the coaching setup at Arsenal as he says he would rather be a sporting director.

The Spaniard - who spent six seasons with the Gunners, making more than 180 appearances and winning two FA Cups – has been offered the chance to work as a coach at the north London club.

At 35-years-old it is believed that Cazorla will retire from football when his contract expires this summer, after scoring 12 times in 29 appearances for his hometown club Villarreal this season.

Cazorla says that he has already made a decision about his future, though he is not ready to reveal his plans as of yet.

For now Cazorla insists his priority is Villarreal and providing the team with attacking quality when the season resumes.

Cazorla told Cadena SER: 'I have already made my decision, but right now is not the time to say anything. I have an idea of what I want, but in due course I will reveal what I've decided. Now is not the time because we have to be focused on competing.

'[The season suspension] has helped me think, listen to my body, but I do not want to pre-empt you or to speculate too much.'

'I don't know [if I will continue my playing career elsewhere], I have an idea but when the time comes I will communicate it and give the explanations. Now we have to be focused.

'I want to remain linked to football. I could be a coach, but I see myself more in a sporting director role.'

Cazorla played alongside current Gunners manager Arteta for four seasons at the Emirates Stadium.

Arteta was the Arsenal captain toward the end of Cazorla's time at the club and the two were known for their friendship.

Since arriving at Arsenal in the summer of 2013, Cazorla instantly demonstrated his quality in north London and earned Arteta's respect.

He featured in every Premier League game during his first season at the club and developed a formidable partnership with the now Gunners boss.