Mikel Arteta says “it was a dream” to join Arsenal.
The Gunners skipper has made 149 appearances since joining from Everton in 2011, but will not renew his playing contract in north London at the end of this season.
Arteta has helped Arsenal win two FA Cups during his time at the club and says he will look back on a “spectacular experience”.
"It’s been a huge honour, a privilege, and I can only promise that I’ve done my best"
“I would just like to thank you all so much for the way in which you’ve supported me during my time here,” Arteta wrote in his final Arsenal captain’s notes. “It’s been a huge honour, a privilege, and I can only promise that I’ve done my best.
“I tried to behave in the most professional way and maximise the resources we have. I’m at peace with that. Our ambition this season was to win the Premier League and we’re so disappointed that we came short with that aim, because it’s not good enough for this club.
“But I’ll always be proud that I was able to help give the fans some trophies, which they had been waiting for a long time for.
“Winning two FA Cups in a row was special but for me, it’s not enough for a club like this. It shouldn’t be the ambition.
“Hopefully the new generation will be better than us and will become fantastic leaders and heroes here.
“I’ve enjoyed every minute. For me it was a dream to come here because I always admired this club."
READ MORE FROM MIKEL IN THE ASTON VILLA PROGRAMME
Aston Villa programme cover
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