Santi Cazorla has played down speculation that he is in line to join Mikel Arteta's coaching staff at former club Arsenal.

The Spanish midfielder spent six injury-ravished seasons at the Emirates Stadium before reviving his career with Villarreal in 2018.

Cazorla remains a popular figure at Arsenal and was recently touted as a possible contender to become Arteta's right-hand man, the pair having previously played together in North London.

However, the 35-year-old has revealed that he would rather take up a boardroom position when he hangs up his boots.

"I want to remain linked to football. I could be a coach, but I see myself more in a sporting director role," he told Cadena Ser.

"I have already made a decision [on my future], but right now is not the time to say anything.

"I have an idea of what I want, but in due course I will reveal what I've decided. Now is not the time because we have to be focused on competing.

"[The season being postponed] has helped me think, listen to my body, but I do not want to preempt you or to speculate too much."

Cazorla has registered eight goals and six assists in 24 La Liga appearances this term.