by Lewis Ambrose

In an open interview with the Guardian, Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has spoken about his time at the club so far.

Incredibly Ramsey joined Arsenal from Cardiff City seven years ago, but is now a crucial part of Arsène Wenger’s team.

“It’s gone so quick and a lot has happened,” said the Welsh midfielder. “I was a 17-year-old baby coming up to London, didn’t know what to expect and just went with the flow. I’ve turned into a man since I’ve been here. I had to grow up quite quickly.”

Ramsey was well sought after with Manchester United also having a bid accepted by the Welsh club but he chose Arsenal and has enjoyed an incredible rise since. The 2013/14 season was undoubtedly his finest. Despite missing over three months the midfielder scored an incredible 16 goals in 34 games; his most important goal was unquestionably the winner in the FA Cup Final defeat of Hull City.

Arsenal's Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey (L) celebrates scoring the winning goal during the 2014 FA Cup final match between Arsenal and Hull City at Wembley. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey (L) celebrates scoring the winning goal during the 2014 FA Cup final match between Arsenal and Hull City at Wembley. (ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP/Getty Images)

Now Ramsey is aiming higher and higher.

“Hopefully I can be one of the best midfielders in the world, that’s what drives me on, to try and achieve that and to try and go on and win many things.”

There’s no doubt that he has the ability and the attitude to do that. Any success that Arsenal have this season is likely to heavily involve Ramsey. A crucial member of the team, he is one of the players Arsenal can look to.

“I think I’ve definitely grown as a player. I feel there’s a responsibility there to perform, to lead the team by driving forward and winning the ball back,” Ramsey said. “I’m a player who always wants to be involved in the game. That’s why I don’t particularly like going on the right because I’m not involved as much. I want the ball every time we have an attack.”

Arsène Wenger will surely try and work Ramsey back into the team for the coming season. In doing so he will probably prepare to build the team around the Welshman for many years. Aaron Ramsey is that good.