Granit Xhaka has sent Arsenal fans an emotional goodbye message after his transfer to Bayer Leverkusen was confirmed.
Xhaka enjoyed an excellent 2022/23 campaign with the Gunners, netting seven goals and providing a further seven assists in the Premier League. But the Swiss international wanted a change of scenery, returning to the Bundesliga after seven years in north London.
Writing on Instagram, the 30-year-old said: "Gunners, it's been some journey - and all that's left is for me to say thank you. I've spent seven years at Arsenal.
"The club has become such an important part of my life - and it's not easy to leave. But now is the right time for a new adventure.
"There are so many people I need to thank - the managers I played for, all my team-mates and the staff behind the scenes. And I especially want to thank all of you.
"Everyone knows we've been through some tough times. But we came through them together - and I'll never ever forget the feeling I had each time we won the FA Cup or whenever I heard you singing my name.
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"Pure goosebumps! I will always carry Arsenal in my heart. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner. Thank you."
During his time at the Emirates Stadium, Xhaka made 297 appearances, scoring 23 times and registering 29 assists - winning two FA Cups in the process.
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