OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO has penned an emotional farewell after spending three and a half “priceless” years at Arsenal.
The Ukraine international, 29, has signed for Ajax on a permanent deal until the end of the season.
Arsenal paid £32million to sign Zinchenko from Manchester City in 2022, reuniting him with former Etihad assistant Mikel Arteta.
But they have only managed to recover a fraction of that fee, with Zinchenko’s stock plummeting after spending several of his prime years on the fringes in North London.
Although the move didn’t work out, Zinchenko expressed his love for the Gunners in a heartfelt goodbye.
He wrote on Instagram: “To the Gunners. I will never forget the way you welcomed me.
“Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your ‘Always beliiiiiieeeve’. I couldn’t even dream about it.
“From the deepest place in my heart I would like to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family.
“To the coaching staff, thank you for the opportunity to be a small part of this amazing club.
“To the players, thank you for the priceless experience, fantastic memories and becoming friends for life.
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“To all the staff, thank you for your help and for looking after me and my family.
“And of course to the fans, for love, support and criticism which we as a players need to accept and work even harder.
“I just want to wish you all the best and hope you achieve everything whatever you wish. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you @arsenal.”
Zinchenko was poached by Man City as a promising teenager in 2016, having cut his teeth with Russian side Ufa.
He won four Premier League titles and five domestic cups at the Etihad but was rarely more than a bit-part player.
Zinchenko leaves Arsenal with three goals in 91 appearances, and having failed to win a trophy.
He spent the first half of this campaign on loan at Nottingham Forest but only managed five appearances in the league.
Arsenal said: “We thank Alex for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family well in their new chapter.”
