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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Matt Davies

Pablo Mari desperate for Arsenal stay as coronavirus pandemic disrupts loan spell

Pablo Mari insists his future remains with Arsenal and is determined to secure a permanent move to the north London club.

The Spanish defender - despite making just two appearances - impressed following a January loan switch from Flamengo, before the coronavirus pandemic shut down football across Europe.

Mari made his highly anticipated Premier League debut in Arsenal's final game before football was suspended in a victory against West Ham.

Despite the disruptions ensuring limited playing time, Mari, who has an option-to-buy in his loan contract, believes his time at Arsenal is not done yet.

“Of course I have a lot of things I can improve but I think my football can be really good with Arsenal, and also with the coach,” Mari told Sky Sports.

(REUTERS)

“So, I hope that me and the club go at the end with good things to do a permanent transfer. But we will see because at the moment with the virus it is a little bit difficult.”

On Mikel Arteta - who Mari believes will take him to new heights - the 26-year-old added: “He has done really well so far. I'm really happy to work with him.

“He has helped me with my weaknesses and improved my strengths. I hope I can work with him a lot of years.”

Assuming his move is made permanent, Mari has set his sights on winning both domestic and European silverware with Arsenal.

“To win the Premier League or try to go to the Champions League with the Arsenal," Mari said when asked about his ambitions, adding: "Also to go to the national team."

Where the Spaniard has clearly settled with Arsenal, he also reveals he has become accustomed to living in England.

“I love England and so does my wife," he said. "The centre of London is unbelievable. We are really happy here.”

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