Laurent Koscielny claims he his ‘thankful’ for his time at Arsenal despite going on strike in order to force through his move to Bordeaux. The 33-year-old officially completed his return to Ligue 1 on Tuesday having refused to travel with Unai Emery’s squad for their pre-season tour of the United States. Koscielny, who was subsequently stripped of the captaincy before his departure, angered Arsenal in his Bordeaux announcement video by removing the Gunners shirt to unveil the French club’s kit. But the defender is adamant that he discussed his intention to leave Arsenal ‘months’ before he finally ended his time at the club. ‘As you know I engaged with Bordeaux. After nine years spent at Arsenal, I took the decision to leave,’ Koscielny posted on Instagram.
I have spent wonderful years with this club, nine years during which I learned, evolved, grew up. ‘This experience made me the player I am today. My decision to leave has been discussed for months with my club, my teammates, my coach, and it has been a well thought decision. ‘I see this departure like a new turning point in my life as a player but also in in my life as a man and a family man.