William Saliba has admitted he felt "like a robber" by leaving his teammates to return to Arsenal ahead of St Etienne's French Cup final.
The 19-year-old defender was signed by the Gunners last summer in a £27m move, but was immediately sent back on loan to the French club for this season.
Although the Ligue 1 campaign was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, the French Cup final between St Etienne and PSG will go ahead on July 24.
St Etienne were left furious, however, after being unable to reach an agreement with Arsenal over extending the loan to allow Saliba the chance to play in the match, despite the Gunners initially suggesting it would not be an issue.
He will, however, attend the match as a supporter, and speaking to L'Equipe Saliba admitted he was disappointed to miss out on the action.
When asked why he would be going to the stadium for the game, Saliba replied: "I couldn’t miss this. As I am not able to play, I want to at least feel this final as much as possible, by supporting my team in the stadium.
"In front of the TV, it would not be the same. It was important for me to be there, hoping to see Les Verts win.
"It will also allow me to say goodbye to my teammates properly. Because I left like I was a robber."
Saliba added that despite the disappointment of missing the final, he was looking forward to starting a new chapter at Arsenal next season.
"I fell for Arsenal from the start," he continued. "A number of French players have been there.
"Arsenal has not been at the top of its game for the last three, four years. But, like St Étienne, its badge, its history and its fans made me want it.
"I have a crush on Arsenal. What it gives off speaks to me. I had no hesitation. I am discovering another world."
