Arsenal defender confirms summer departure

Switzerland defender Stephan Lichtsteiner has thanked Arsenal supporters after deciding to pursue a fresh challenge elsewhere next season.

The 35-year-old was Unai Emery's maiden signing as the Gunners' manager last summer and he made 23 appearances for the club during the 2018/2019 campaign.

Despite this, there had been indication that he could parts ways with the side due to the limited gametime during the backend of the season and Lichtsteiner has now revealed that he has decided against extending his deal.

"I wish my teammates, my coach and his staff, all hard-working employees and all Gunner fans simply the best! I loved to be a part of this club," he wrote on his Instagram account.

With Lichsteiner leaving the club, the Gunners may seek to strengthen the right-back spot, considering Ainsley Maitland-Niles seems the only viable option available for the role.

Carl Jenkinson is also expected to leave the club when his contract expires this month while Hector Bellerin won't be able to return to first-team action until September at the least after a serious knee injury.