Unai Emery insists he holds no hard feelings towards Arsenal.
The Spaniard lasted just 18 months at the Emirates after replacing legendary manager Arsene Wenger in May 2018.
A seven-game winless run saw a section of the Arsenal fan base turn on Emery, who has revived his managerial career by guiding Villarreal to fourth in LaLiga this season.
Asked if he had a message for Arsenal fans, Emery told Football.London: “My message is that I’m grateful for my experience and above all my first year in Arsenal.
“I understand how football is, with the emotions and good results are needed.
“The second year we lost a little bit that and the club decided to change, me but I can’t say anything negative to them because for my experience it was amazing to be in Arsenal.
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“Now I’m using all my experiences in Villarreal and want to create my way here.
“The [Arsenal] supporters supported me in that moment and the second year was more difficult but I understand totally. My message is thank you.”
While Emery is thriving in Spain, Arsenal have struggled for consistent form under Mikel Arteta this term.
The Gunners have won three successive Premier League matches, but are 11th in the table after 17 games.