- Arsenal defeated Aston Villa 4-0

- Mikel Arteta played his last match and scored his last goal

- The midfielder speaks about his future

The former Arsenal captain is almost certain he has played for the last time as a professional after enjoying his farewell Arsenal appearance.

Olivier Giroud’s hat-trick helped the Gunners to leapfrog their north London rivals Spurs into second place in the Premier League table. The Gunners victory, coupled with Spurs trouncing at the St. James’s Park by Newcastle, ensured Wenger’s men finish above their rivals yet again.

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Arsenal playmaker Mikel Arteta replaced Mesut Ozil during the closing stages. The 34-year-old's injury-time effort was diverted into his own net by Aston Villa keeper.

Arteta's last match for Arsenal

Meanwhile, the player has been linked with a move to Manchester City to join the coaching staff of incoming boss Pep Guardiola from next season.

According to Daily Mail, the Arsenal midfielder is a close friend of the incoming City boss after playing in Barcelona's academy while Guardiola was a first-team regular.

The source reports that Arteta is determined to become a coach and has already completed some of his badges. He has also gained experience by working with the Gunners' Under 13s and Wales' Under 16s.

Speaking about his future, Arteta noted: "I have to take some time. I'm 99 per cent sure I will stop playing football. I have different options now to continue in relation to this magnificent sport. I need to sit down with my family and decide what is best for me and for football in general in the next chapter."

"I love competing and I love this game. I wanted to decide when the time was to leave. I preferred to make that decision myself, and not the other away around. In my opinion, I'm leaving the best club in England for sure.I'm very happy because the people and the manager have been unbelievable for me these last few weeks. They have left the doors open for me at this club. That means a lot."

Speaking about his goal the player added: "I don't know. I couldn't write a better script probably. The boys have been absolutely magnificent with me in the last two days. The things I've experienced will stay with me for the rest of my life. It's a day I will never forget."