Arsenal vice-captain Laurent Koscielny has insisted that he has no intention to pursue a new challenge despite the ongoing interest from French club Marseille. The 31-year-old joined the FA Cup holders from Lorient back in the summer of 2010 and has since racked 290 appearances across all competitions.
The France international had been linked with a potential move elsewhere last summer, but the centre-back committed his future to the Gunners by inking a fresh three-year deal in January.
Koscielny played a key role in the Gunners transformation to the 3-4-3 setup last term, although he found himself suspended for the FA Cup final win over Chelsea due to a reckless challenge which earned him a straight red card in the final league outing against Everton.
The £75,000-a-week defender had previously hinted that he could pursue a future move to Marseille, whom he followed during his childhood days, but he is now committed his future to the north London club.
“I am just here to enjoy my job and give everything for the team,” he told the club’s official website. “When I first got here, I didn’t think about how long I would stay at this club – but now I am starting my eighth season.”
Koscielny also expressed his loyalty towards manager Arsene Wenger who has made him what he is after having picked him from the French league as a relatively unknown in the game.
He added: “Arsene Wenger is a big [inspiration] for me. He bought me from France, has given me everything to help me play for Arsenal, and has helped me as a man too.”
Koscielny is due to take part in the Gunners’ Community Shield game against Chelsea on August 6th before serving a two-match suspension in the Premier League for his red card offence last term.
