On-loan defender talks up permanent Arsenal stay

Pablo Mari has revealed that he hopes to make his loan move to Arsenal permanent when the opportunity presents itself. 

The centre-back moved to the Gunners from Brazilian champions Flamengo on loan in January and has made just one Premier League start following his arrival, that coming in their 1-0 win over West Ham. 

Mari arrived in north London after securing the Brasileirao title and becoming the first Spaniard to lift the Copa Libertadores in late 2019. 

And while the 26-year-old has struggled to break into the Arsenal first team under Mikel Arteta, with his other start for the club coming in their 2-0 FA Cup win over Portsmouth, Mari has stated he wants to stay at the Emirates. 

Having made his league debut against West Ham in the final round of matches before lockdown measures were implemented to help combat the Coronavirus pandemic, Mari told Sky Sports: "We played well. I have a lot of things to learn but I think my football can be really good with the Arsenal. 

"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." 

Mari also heaped praise on Arteta, adding: "He has done really well so far. I'm really happy to work with him. 

"He has helped me with my weaknesses and improved the strengths. I hope I can work with him a lot of years."