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Santi Cazorla has posted an emotional farewell message to Arsenal fans after leaving the club.

The Spanish midfielder, 33, will not renew his contract at the Emirates and is expected to return to former club Villarreal following six years in north London.

Cazorla has not played since October 2016 after sustaining an Achilles injury which required extensive surgery.

And in a video posted on social media, he said: "It is sad to be leaving after so many good times. I have loved my time at the club and will always remember the special moments we had together.

"The FA Cup win in 2014 is something we will never forget, it was a great moment for me and the club. I want to say thank you very much because you have given me support and I am proud to be part of this club's history.

(Image: 2014 The FA) (Image: PA)

"I want to wish you all the best, I will miss you a lot."

Cazorla made 180 appearances for Arsenal and scored 29 goals after joining the club from Spanish side Malaga in 2012. He helped the team capture two FA Cups, in 2014, when he scored and was man of the match, and 2015.

"Santi is always one of my favourite players to watch. His natural ability with both feet, his speed of thought and movement were central to our best performances in recent years," Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said in a statement.

"He plays with a joy and freedom which is very rare. We wish him well for the future and thank him for his important contribution to our club."