Mikel Arteta’s first Arsenal signing Pablo Mari sends emotional farewell message

The Spanish defender joined shortly after his compatriot was appointed manager and initially signed a six-month loan deal after winning the Copa Libertadores with Flamengo.

Mari was part of the squads which win the FA Cup and FA Community Shield in quick succession, but a succession of injuries prevented the 29-year-old from making a major impression.

Following a short-term spell with Udinese to see out the 2021/2022 campaign, the Spanish defender spent the whole of last season on loan with the team he now joins, AC Monza.

Mari’s season was interrupted following an horrific incident during which he was the victim of a knife attack which saw him require emergency hospital treatment.

Now fully recovered, Mari will join Monza on a permanent deal subject to the completion of regulatory processes.

As my contract with Arsenal comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you,’ he wrote on Instagram.