Santi Cazorla was chosen over Cesc Fabregas in Spain’s match against Macedonia on Tuesday.

The midfield maestro had a fantastic season for Arsenal last year but has always just fallen short when it came to being picked for his national team, and, with some of the best midfielders in the world playing for his country, it was hard to argue against it.

However, the 30-year-old’s hard work has finally payed off and he’s able to represent his country for the 74th time in his career.

International: Santi Cazorla starts for Spain against Macedonia. #afc pic.twitter.com/XunuuJTN5b

— afcstuff (@afcstuff) September 8, 2015