Following his loan move to Villarreal, Joel Campbell admitted it was Santi Cazorla who encouraged him to make the move. Campbell joined the La Liga outfit for the rest of the season in part of the deal to bring Gabriel to the Emirates and admits he is happy for the opportunity to prove himself. Campbell is quoted by Express as saying this about the move:

“Santi Cazorla is a great player and he told me how I’d find the club. He said that at Villarreal it’s just one big happy family” he said.

“I’m very happy to be here and playing in La Liga. It’s a great chance for me to do well in the second half of the season.”

“Playing in Spain is certainly special. I was lucky enough to play with Real Betis and now I’ve got the opportunity again with Villarreal.”

“I’m ready to work hard and I hope things turn out well. My head is at Villarreal and I’m determined to prove my worth here.”

Santi Cazorla of course spent four year at Villarreal before making the move to Malaga in 2011. Arsenal swooped for him a year later, but Santi clearly still holds the club near his heart. As for Campbell, he has already made his debut for his new club in their Copa Del Ray victory over Getafe. He started and played 62 minutes in the 1-0 win, always looking dangerous.

Good luck to Joel, and good on Santi for the words of encouragement to his teammate.

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