Experienced Defender With 105 International Caps Departs Arsenal

Swiss defender Stephan Lichtsteiner, 35, has announced his departure from Arsenal.

It will be recalled that the right back joined the Gunners last summer from Italian champions Juventus, penning a one-year deal until the end of the 2018-2019 season.

Writing on Instagram, Lichtsteiner said : We were close to add an important chapter to this amazing club's history. But to be close is unfortunately not good enough. This is hard to accept. I'm very disappointed.

"It was our objective to bring Arsenal back on the highest international level and to win trophies. Both belong to this great club.

"I wish my team-mates, my coach and his staff, all hard-working employees and all Gunner fans simply the best.

"I'm confident our team can complete our mission next season! I loved to be a part of this club."

Stephan Lichtsteiner, who has earned 105 caps for Switzerland, departs Arsenal after playing 23 games in all competitions.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : arsenal.com