Monreal says goodbye to Arsenal pals ahead of derby as he reveals Cazorla was behind Gunners move

NACHO MONREAL bid an emotional farewell to Arsenal and revealed Santi Cazorla was behind his 2013 move to the Emirates.

The left-back has left the Gunners to join Real Sociedad on a two-year deal after nearly seven years in North London.

And Monreal revealed Arsenal legend Santi Cazorla was responsible for his switch to the Emirates from Malaga.

Taking to Instagram ahead of the North London derby, Monreal posted a picture of him lifting the FA Cup with Arsene Wenger alongside a nostalgic caption.

It read: "31st January, 2013. Malaga.

"I wake up, check my phone and have two calls from Santi Cazorla.

"I call him and he asks me if I want to play for Arsenal. 10 hours later I was an Arsenal player. Sometimes Football is simple.

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"Different country, city, language, football style, team mates, where it's not the best conditions for a shy person as me, but I knew I have to be there!!

"Almost seven years later it's time to say goodbye, it hasn't been an easy decision, but thinking of my family and my future it feels that it is the right decision.

"I would like to say thank you to all my team mates, staff, and all the people who work for Arsenal and especially to the fans for all the respect and love they have always shown me.

"I’ll always remember you. THANKS."

And Monreal couldn't resist one last dig at Tottenham adding: "P.S Now it's time to win the North London Derby ."

Monreal made 250 appearances for Arsenal, scoring ten goals.