MIKEL ARTETA has stunned Arsenal fans by admitting his best days are behind him.
The Spaniard was Arsene Wenger's standout purchase on deadline day as he secured a £10million move from Everton.
But the midfielder, who turns 30 next year, revealed time is fast running out for him.
He said: "There is always a start and an end and today is the end of probably the best time of my career.
"I am 29 years old so I haven't got much time left to take a chance like this one. I think I have done my best for Everton.
"It is very difficult to say goodbye. I still can't believe it but at the same time I think it is the right moment for everyone.
"It has been crazy. I can't believe what happened, and the way it happened but as I said, that is part of football and I am going to be playing for another club soon.
"Obviously I am never going to forget what I have done here and what the people and this club have done for me."
Arteta revealed the lure of Champions League football played its part in the move.
He said: "It is a big opportunity for me and my family and I think it is the right time for me to take it.
"It is a big challenge, a different challenge, fresh for me and I want to see myself on the biggest stage, the Champions League.
"I always try hard, I have been as professional as I could and I was grateful for the support and the love that the club and the fans showed me."
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