Hector Bellerin has downplayed a move back to boyhood club Barcelona after admitting he is fully focused on Arsenal.
Having been with Barcelona for eight years, progressing through the youth ranks, the 21-year-old right-back opted to join Arsenal in the summer of 2011 and gone on to cement a starting role in Arsene Wenger’s back four at the Emirates.
Over the seasons, Bellerin has gone on to be a consistent performer and endeared himself to the Arsenal faithful. His displays, especially those last season, attracted the attentions of both Barcelona and Manchester City. However, the Spaniard is happy where he is.
When asked about a possible move back to Barcelona, Bellerin said:
‘If I wanted to play there I would have stayed there.
‘I was very happy when Arsenal showed interest in me and I decided to come here. I’m not looking back, I’m just looking to help Arsenal. It’s nice for a player to know that big teams want you but I’m very happy here.
‘I’ve still got three years left on my contract so I’m just focused on playing every single week, improving and hopefully making things happen here at Arsenal.
‘I’m not in a rush to extend the contract. I’m happy. I’m comfortable. I want to be here a long time.’
With three-years still left to run on his existing contract at the Emirates, Wenger and the fans need not worry about interest from potential suitors. Why? Well firstly, three-years is a long time in football. Secondly, and most importantly, Bellerin is focused on Arsenal and from the sounds of it is enjoying his time in London. If he entered his final year and was snubbing a new deal, then it would be worrying.
This is great to hear and hopefully he can keep up his fine performances for the rest of the season and push Arsenal to the title.
Bellerin has started all 10 of Arsenal’s Premier League games so far this season.
