BREAKING! Arsenal star sends heartfelt message to fans as he leave the Emirate

Pablo Mari has classily thanked Arsenal fans for their support during his three-and-a-half-year stay after he completed a permanent transfer to Monza.

Spanish centre-back Mari, 29, joined the Gunners in January 2020 from Brazilian giants Flamengo, but after failing to establish himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta, spent last season on loan at Monza. Making his mark over 31 appearances, the Italian top-flight side have been so impressed with Mari’s performances that they’ve agreed to pay a reported €6million (£5.1m) to keep him permanently.

His loan spell included being stabbed in the back during a supermarket attack near Milan, forcing him to undergo surgery and spend three months on the sidelines. Fortunately, the Mallorca academy graduate was able to pick up where he left off and following Friday’s announcement of his transfer, has waved goodbye to Arsenal.

“As my contract with Arsenal comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you,” the 29-year-old defender, who made a total of 22 appearances and scored one goal for the Gunners, wrote in a heartfelt Twitter post.

“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent this great and historic club, for all the memories and for the support I always received. It has been an immense honour to wear the Arsenal jersey and win two titles with this club. The Gunners will always have a place in my heart!”

Arsenal reciprocated the gesture, posting on their official website: “We thank Pablo for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family the best of health and happiness in their new chapter.”