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Arsenal should follow Atletico's example - Cazorla

Santi Cazorla was linked with a move to Atletico Madrid this summer but insists he is happy at Arsenal © Getty Images

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Santi Cazorla claims Arsenal must emulate Atletico Madrid's example if they are to edge their rivals to the Premier League title.

Cazorla, who had been linked with a summer move to Diego Simeone's side before confirming to ESPN he was happy to stay at the Emirates, told Marca that Atletico's blueprint is the one to follow should Arsenal want to end their 10-year wait for a league crown.

Atletico pipped Real Madrid and Barcelona to the La Liga crown last season despite the two Spanish giants heavily bolstering their respective squads. Simeone also had to deal with Radamel Falcao's departure to Monaco, but steered his side to a first league win since 1996.

"Atletico are good example to follow," Cazorla told the newspaper. "Atletico and Arsenal have to play the same way, but everyone is looking to win titles.

"They had an incredible season last year. Winning titles takes several campaigns, I admire everything they have conquered. Many people do not realise how hard it is to win a league competing with Barcelona or Madrid."

Arsenal manager Wenger appears to have ditched his usual prudent approach to spending heavily on transfers and has strengthened his squad with Alexis Sanchez, David Ospina, Mathieu Debuchy and most recently Calum Chambers.

However, Arsenal's title rivals have also made sizeable investments this summer and Cazorla believes it is too close to call as to who will be named champions next May.

He said: "I'm expecting a very open title race. City are the reigning champions; United are going to strengthen in a big way and, since they aren't in Europe, will be able to focus on the league.

"Chelsea have made great signings like Diego Costa, Cesc Fàbregas, Thibaut Courtois and Didier Drobga.

"I do not want to forget other teams like Liverpool, who went so close to the title last year, or Tottenham. I'm sure it will be very open and just hope that Arsenal are in the top group."

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