Gunners fear Santi’s career could be over

LONDON: Arsenal reportedly fear Santi Cazorla will never play again after having ninth operation on his ankle.

The Spanish playmaker, 32, nearly lost his foot after contracting an infection but was on the road to recovery before another setback.

And the Daily Mail claim the Gunners’ medical team are afraid he will not be able to overcome the ruptured Achilles that has kept him out for a year.

Arsene Wenger is determined to give Cazorla a chance to play again after his January return date was pushed back.

“That operation is for me, the disastrous, sad news of the day. I feel really sorry for Santi,” said the Frenchman.

“He is a guy I admire, that we all love here, who came into training every day with a smile because he loved so much the game.

“For him not to be available for us, it is a big blow. But for him, as well, it is something that is difficult to take and I hope despite what happened – I don’t know exactly well.

“I have been informed medically but I have not read any report.”

Cazorla – who is out of contract in the summer – revealed he had gone under the knife again on Wednesday but is still determined to play again.

He said: “Due to some discomfort in the tendon the last few days, I have had to undergo surgery.

“It is delaying the date of my return to the field. I maintain my hope and motivation to enjoy my great passion, football.”