Carl Jenkinson has tipped Arsenal for a great future under Unai Emery in a heartfelt message to fans after sealing a move to Nottingham Forest.
The 27-year-old defender, a one-cap England international who represented both the Three Lions and Finland at youth level, has signed a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
Jenkinson, who came through the ranks at Charlton before joining the Gunners for £1million in July 2011, had two loan spells at West Ham and another at Birmingham during his time with the Gunners, for whom he made 70 appearances.
And after thanking Arsenal fans in a farewell note, Jenkinson said he would enjoy watching the club's successful next chapter from the stands.
"This is a message that is hard to write so I’m going to keep it short. I’m leaving Arsenal in pursuit of a new challenge and a fresh start, and ultimately to play regular football again.
"I can’t really put into words what it has meant to me to play for this club, but what I can say is I have truly lived my dream.
"This brings me to you, the proper Arsenal fans, as I have lived your dream too. It has been an up and down journey for me but I hope you all have seen how much it has meant to me and know that I have given it my all.
"I have played 70 games for Arsenal which if you told me I would do as a kid I would’ve laughed at you. I take many great memories and friendships from my time at this special football club, and it is a chapter in my life that I will cherish forever.
"I see a great future for this club under the current manager and coaching staff, and I look forward to seeing this unfold. As for now, I’ll take my seat back in the stand, as a fan, with the rest of you."
