Arsenal and Ignacio "Nacho" Monreal Eraso have agreed to a new three-year extension to keep the full-back with the Gunners through 2019, the team announced.
"I'm really happy because my intention was to keep playing for Arsenal," he told the club's official website. "I feel really good playing here."
How important is Monreal?
This season, Monreal has made 22 appearances for the Gunners, which accounts for all of the Premier League games for Arsenal, which he has two assists, 21 chances created, 1,052 passes made, 38 tackles won, 124 duels won and 70 clearances as a full-back. He has helped the team keep 10 clean sheets
Monreal helped Arsenal to win the FA Cup in 2013-14 and 2014-15, while also helping the team win the FA Community Shield in 2014 and 2015. Despite putting up a very good effort, Spain's team was runner-up in the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup.
The full-back has played 290 games in his career, scoring eight goals in the process.
The career of Monreal
The 29-year-old has played professionally for Osasuna B (2005-2006), Osasuna (2006-2011), Malaga (2011-2013) and Arsenal (2013-present), while appearing for the Spain National team multiple times. At the amateur level, Monreal played for CD Pamplona and CA Osasuna. On January 31, 2013 Monreal joined Arsenal on a long-term deal that was about £8.3 million. Since then, he has been reliable at the left-back and center-back position for the Gunners.
Monreal picked up his first call to an International career for the Spain U-21 squad, but did not make it to the senior side of the Spanish squad until he played in the 2009 UEFA European Championship. The defensive player took part in an exhibition game against Macedonia and got on the pitch for the last 15 minutes.
Press Conference
Monreal stated he had a "good relationship" with his teammates, and that they "keep improving year after year." The Spaniard told Arsenal.com he "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," added Monreal.
The defender spoke of his friendship with Arsene Wenger, who he has a "really good relationship with," which is the reason he "extended his contract."
Monreal is "very happy" with his performances in the Premier League this season, considering "it was difficult" during his first year as he "didn't speak English."
"But now I feel more comfortable with my team-mates and with everything in general so that has helped me to play better because I have more confidence in myself," ended Monreal
Future
Everyone at the Emirates Stadium will look forward to Monreal's future with Arsenal in seasons to come.