Nacho Monreal signs new Arsenal contract

Nacho Monreal has signed a new long-term contract at Arsenal.

The Spanish left-back has been an ever present in the side's defence this season as they have kept 10 clean sheets in 22 games.

Monreal arrived in January 2013 and initially took time to settle at the Emirates, playing second fiddle to Kieran Gibbs until the start of last year.

A spell at centre-back during the early part of the 2014/15 season saw his defensive skills make a dramatic improvement, since when he has become firmly established as a first-choice in Arsenal’s backline.

The 29-year-old had been linked with a return to Spain with Atletico Bilbao during the summer but has consistently made clear his happiness at Arsenal.

On extending his contract he told the club website: “I’m really happy because my intention was to keep playing for Arsenal. I feel really good playing here.

“I have a good relationship with my team-mates and we keep improving year after year. I wanted to stay here and I could extend my contract. I would like to play here for many more years.

“The trust of the Arsenal fans is really important for us because they are helping us in every moment as we are fighting to win the Premier League.

“I met the boss three years ago and I have a really good relationship with him and I’m really happy with him. For these reasons I extended my contract.”