New Villarreal right-back Serge Aurier insists he would never have signed for 'the enemy' in Arsenal.

The Ivory Coast international left Tottenham Hotspur after agreeing a contract termination with the north London club on the final day of the summer transfer window.

Aurier was linked with a move across north London to Arsenal, but the 28-year-old says it was never an option.

He wrote in an Instagram post: "First of all, I would like to thank all the Spurs fans for these four wonderful seasons with you.

"They were all different but I leave with some great memories. I really enjoyed playing the game wearing your colours proudly.

"It is true that not everything was perfect, there were moments of joy and sadness but know one thing, I have always played 100 per cent, without cheating!

"I have never seen myself at another club in England if not at your place! And I didn't see myself joining the enemy even less because I have too much respect for our club, for our history and for all our moments shared together.

"You have shown unfailing support during these four seasons and I really want to thank you because you have given me so much!

"The last few months have not been easy and I would have liked to say goodbye to you on better terms, but each story comes to an end, you have to know how to accept it and move on!

"I am now speaking to you, my former team-mates, my brothers with whom I have lived so much. I really enjoyed playing with you, I know you will miss me especially in our locker room where I liked to set the mood.

"I wish you the best for this season and I promise I will be seeing you again, you will not be forgetting me anytime soon! Good luck @spursofficial."