Arsenal defender Pablo Mari has spoken of his desire to stay at the Emirates Stadium for a very long time after making his debut for the North-London side before suspension of football in England.
Mari joined the Gunners on loan in the winter transfer window until the end of the season after enjoying short spells at Girona, NAC and Deportivo La Coruna before signing for Flamengo permanently.
Arsenal have an option to sign the defender permanently should he be convincing enough at the London club. The 26-year-old made his Arsenal debut against West Ham – the last game for Arsenal before the suspension of the league, with Mikel Arteta’s side recording a win while keeping a clean sheet.
“We played well. I have a lot of things to learn but I think my football can be really good with the Arsenal,” Mari speaking with Sky Sports. “I hope the club and I can go at the end (of the season) with good things to do the permanent transfer. We will see what happens because at the moment with the virus it is difficult.”
Pablo Mari has been full of praise for his manager adding that Arteta is making an effort to improve his game.
“He [Arteta] has done really well so far. I’m really happy to work with him,” he said. “He has helped me with my weaknesses and improved the strengths. I hope I can work with him a lot of years.”
Flamengo defender also spoke of his favourite players from Arsenal while growing up.
“When I was was young I watched Pires, Bergkamp, Henry, Senderos. I liked them so much.”
His adaptation to life at England has been impressive but the 26-year-old feels he would love to do more his favourite things aside football.
“I like to fish. I always go when I’m on holidays in Spain. I go to the beach with some family. I like to go there because I’m alone and I can think. I’ve not had a chance in England yet but I want to in future.
“I love England and so does my wife. The centre of London is unbelievable. We are really happy here.”
