Shkodran Mustafi has penned a farewell message to the Arsenal supporters following his deadline day departure from the Emirates Stadium.
The 28-year-old Germany international had entered the final six months of his contract at the club and agreed to a mutual termination of his deal.
That allowed Mustafi to seal a return to his homeland, joining Schalke on a free transfer and reuniting with Sead Kolasinac - who had joined the Bundesliga side earlier this season.
His exit brings an end to a four-year association with Arsenal following his £35m transfer from Valencia, where he endured mixed fortunes on the field.
While acknowledging that there were difficult times during his stint, Mustafi's letter thanked the fans and the club for the time he spent in London.
"Hi Gunners, after four years, 151 matches and two FA Cup trophies, I just wanted to say thank you to the Arsenal community, our great staff, the fans and of course my teammates," he wrote.
"Together we went through good and not so good times but we stood together.
"Arsenal is a fantastic club with a great tradition and I always felt that it was a pleasure and honour to wear the AFC jersey.
"My family and I will always remember the time we had in London and with Arsenal. Gooners, I wish you all the best! Thank you!"
