---
title: "Wenger admits latest Cazorla setback is ‘disastrous’"
canonical: "https://readarsenal.com/2017/11/30/wenger-admits-latest-cazorla-setback-disastrous/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Elliott Cuff"
section: "Arsenal News"
published: "2017-11-30T23:03:02Z"
modified: "2017-11-30T23:03:02Z"
---

# Wenger admits latest Cazorla setback is ‘disastrous’

Arsene Wenger has described Santi Cazorla’s latest injury setback as “disastrous”, but hopes it will not prevent the playmaker from returning to action in January.

On Wednesday, the Spain international confirmed that he has had to undergo another operation on a tendon in his right ankle, and expects his return to be further delayed.

The 32-year old hasn’t played football in over a year, last featuring against Ludogorets in October 2016, and revealed in a recent interview with Marca, that a succession of operations and subsequent infections in his right ankle almost led to him needing to have his foot amputated.

Wenger is still hopeful that Cazorla can return soon, but admits that it is difficult to see the problems persist. Speaking in a news conference, he said;

> That, for me, is the disastrous, sad news of the day. I feel really sorry for Santi; he is a guy I admire and who we all love here.

> He comes into training every day with a smile because he loves the game so much.

> For him not to be available for us is a big blow. For him, as well, it is something that is difficult to take.

> I’ve been informed medically but I have not read any report. I hope he will be alright and he will be back with us in January. That was planned originally.

> I don’t know whether the surgery will put it back or not. I have to speak to the doctor.”

Arsenal, who hammered Huddersfield Town 5-0 on Wednesday, host Manchester United in their next Premier League fixture on Saturday.