Stephan Lichtsteiner has confirmed he will leave Arsenal this summer.
The Swiss defender spent one season at the Emirates after arriving from Juventus on a free transfer a year ago.
He has struggled for regular game time in north London, making just 10 Premier League stars despite an injury to first-choice Hector Bellerin.
Lichtsteiner, 35, admitted previously he may have to move on to extend his career and he has now penned an emotional message to the Gunners support on Instagram.
"Dear Gunners. We were close to add an important chapter to this amazing club's history. But to be close ... is unfortunately not good enough," he wrote.
"This is hard to accept. I'm very disappointed. It was our objective to bring Arsenal back on the highest international level and to win trophies. Both belong to this great club.
"I wish my teammates, my coach and his staff, all hard-working employees and all Gunner fans simply the best! I'm confident our team can complete our mission next season!
"I loved to be a part of this club. It was a great challenge and experience without a happy end, unfortunately. Thank you very much for your overwhelming support! It was much appreciated!"
Arsenal will hope to have Bellerin back in time for pre-season after a serious knee injury.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles impressed for the Gunners in his absence but Bellerin remains Unai Emery's first-choice.
The Arsenal boss is likely to have around £40m to spend this summer after the failure to reach the Champions League.
A central defender and a midfielder remain a priority for the Gunners.
