Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette has thanked the club and its fans after his exit as a free transfer was confirmed on Friday afternoon.
The Frenchman was signed by Arsene Wenger in the summer of 2017 from Lyon and five years later he will return to the Ligue 1 side. He was made captain by Mikel Arteta for the majority of last season after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was punished for his late return from a trip to France.
But for much of his time at the Emirates, the duo formed a partnership in attack under Arsene Wenger, Unai Emery and Arteta. There was speculation over whether or not he would be offered a new deal in north London this summer but there appeared to be a sense that it was time to move on.
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The Gunners confirmed that Lacazette would be leaving the club on a free transfer on Friday with a statement on the club's official website. Speaking as part of it, Arteta praised the impact of the 31-year-old on the club.
"Laca has been a fantastic player for us," he said. "He’s been a real leader on and off the pitch and has been a very important influence to our younger players.
"His commitment with us has been exceptional and we wish him and his family success and happiness.”
Lacazette made 206 appearances for the club over his five years, scoring 71 goals and providing 36 assists. Although he only provided four goals last season, he played a key part in guiding the club back into Europe.
After Arsenal's statement emerged, the striker took to Instagram to send a personal message, writing: "5 years ago, my dream came true.. To sign for @arsenal," he wrote on Instagram. "It’s been an honour to wear the jersey, to be a part of this family. I won trophies, I met real and nice ppl, and I fell even more in love with this club.
"Good luck for the future of the club and the fans, it’s been a pleasure. Once a gunner, Always a Gunner. Thank you, Arsenal."
