Arsenal manager Arteta thanks Sokratis for understanding centre-back decision | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has positive things to say about defender Sokratis, who has left the club.

The Greek international was omitted from the club's Premier League squad for this season.

Despite not featuring for the team this season, Sokratis remained professional these past months, and has now secured his exit.

"First of all I want to thank him because he is such a professional and great person to work with," said Arteta to reporters.

"It's a shame because this season we have a lot of central defenders, we are overloaded with foreign players and I had to make a decision.

"It was a tough one and to be fair he took it really, really well, he has always been really supportive and helpful, so from the bottom of my heart I wish him the best.

"It has been a pleasure to work with him and I wish the best for him and his family in the next chapter."