Mikel Arteta has no regrets about not joining Arsenal last summer.

The 36-year-old, who spent five seasons as a player at the Emirates, was a leading candidate to replace Arsene Wenger last summer, before the Gunners eventually settled on Unai Emery.

When asked how close he came to leaving for Arsenal, Arteta replied: "You all know some things that happened but the reality is I am here and I am very happy.

"In football, it is so hard to predict things. When things happen, you have to make decisions and sometimes you don't have time to make decisions.

"The decision was made and I am so happy. I am very privileged to be where I am."