Laurent Koscielny has revealed he turned down Barcelona to sign a new five-year deal with Arsenal. "I am so happy to have signed a new contract until 2017, it means a lot, notably that the club has a lot of trust in me", he told L'Equipe. "In 2017, I will be almost old."
Despite failing to retain their La Liga title and falling short in the Champions League last year, Barcelona are still largely regarded as the best team in the world.
When asked if he was aware of their interest, the French international added: "Yes of course and frankly it is flattering. But at Arsenal I have everything; I have a great training centre, a wonderful stadium and an amazing group.
"I really want to grow here as Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira and some others did."
