Arsenal Youngster Ignasi Miquel Eager to Prove Himself in Championship Test

After moving to London as a 15 year-old, Arsenal youngster Ignasi Miquel believes he has now fully integrated himself to life in England as he aims to leave a lasting impression at Leicester City.

A product of Barcelona's youth academy, Miquel attracted Premier League interest while coming through at Cornella having been released by the Catalan giants. The Gunners saw off interest from both Manchester United and Valencia to secure the youngster's signature who has progressed through the north London's youth ranks ever since.

After a handful of appearances for the Gunners, including his Champions League debut two years ago, the defender has taken the next step in his footballing education and joined Leicester on a season long loan, a move that he believes is pivotal to his continued development.

"Football-wise it was tough to adjust in the first few months, very tough," Miquel told the Leicester Mercury.

"The pace and the strength of the game was very different and it took me a few months to get up to speed. But know I really like it and I prefer English football to Spanish. It is more technical in La Liga but every team you see in England they have their technical players.

"Spanish football has more to be jealous about English football than the other way around. Just look at how many players are coming here from Spain now.

"It is tough in the Championship, but that is what I have come here for and I am very happy to be here."

Miquel has so far made just one league appearance for the Foxes, also featuring in both of their Capital One Cup outings, as he continues to adjust to life at the Championship club.

Although he is not in Arsene Wenger's first team plans this season, the centre half is confident his spell at Leicester will have him prepared to challenge for a first team role at the Emirates when his time comes.

"I have settled in well and the boys have all been great with me," Miquel added.

"I have my own flat in Leicester as well and feel settled. It is a bit different to London but it has everything you need. It is very different from back in Spain.

"I go back home during the international breaks but I also have family come over to see me foten. They are very proud of me. I think this experience will help me develop as a player, improve and prepare me for the challenge of getting into the Arsenal first team."