Villarreal midfielder Santi Cazorla says he holds no grudge against Arsenal after being released over the summer.

After almost two years sidelined, Cazorla has made a stunning return with the Yellow Submarine.

He told the Guardian: “No, they didn't want to.

“They were very good, very honest. My idea was to do at Arsenal what I eventually did here. I knew whoever was going to sign me would have to see me first: nobody just gives you a contract. Pre-season with Arsenal, let them see me, then we all decide. But they couldn't wait to finalise the squad. They said they'd help any way they could otherwise. I understood it, respected it. I'm eternally grateful.

“The people love me there and I'll always have a connection with Arsenal, so much affection. Not being able to say goodbye playing at the Emirates is like a thorn in my side. If I had to leave, I wanted it to be in front of the fans."