Lacazette confirms he’s leaving Arsenal

LONDON – Alexandre Lacazette has confirmed he will leave Arsenal as a free agent when his contract runs down this month, bringing an end to his five-year stay at the club.

The striker is poised to return to his former side Lyon, as reported by Sportsmail, and has announced his departure from the Emirates with a social media statement.

Since arriving in 2017 from Lyon, he made 206 appearances in all competitions, scoring 71 goals. He is now believed to be weighing up a number of offers.

Both Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu have thanked the 31-year-old for his service, with the manager praising his ‘exceptional’ commitment.

Penned

And Lacazette has also penned a message of his own to reflect on his spell.

‘‘Five years ago, my dream came true... to sign for Arsenal,’’ it read.

‘‘It’s been an honour to wear the jersey, to be a part of this family. I won trophies, I met real and nice people (sic), and I fell even more in love with this club.

‘‘Good luck for the future of the club and the fans, it’s been a pleasure.

‘‘Once a Gunner, always a Gunner. Thank you Arsenal.’’

Lacazette won the FA Cup with the side in 2020, and also lifted the Community Shield in 2017.