Dani Ceballos confirms Arsenal departure

Dani Ceballos has confirmed that he is to leave Arsenal after two years on loan at the club from Real Madrid.

The midfielder is now expected to return to the Spanish capital, though it remains unclear whether current head coach Zinedine Zidane views him as part of his plans for next season.

Ceballos took to Instagram to announce his departure from the Emirates, thanking the club for making him feel welcomed into the Gunners family.

The Spaniard also admitted that it had been a "complicated year", but stated that he worked hard to try his best for the team in their quest to achieve success on the pitch.

"Thanks Arsenal and thanks to all Gunners," he posted. "For welcoming me with so much love from the very first day I wore this jersey. For letting me experience the feeling of being a Gunner and allowing me to be a part of your family all this time.

"A complicated year - for many reasons - has come to its end. Especially for having missed the chance of living home matches in the Emirates with our supporters. Still, I assure you that I will never forget your warmth and support in every moment.

"I am sure that Arsenal, being a historic and great team, will soon be back on top, winning championships and being a reference as it is and always has been. This club, and especially its supporters, deserve it, and I am confident that they will achieve it.

"Thanks to all those people who are part of the team: coaches, kit men, medical staff, communications and marketing team, employees, managers and especially the supporters. All those persons who so often work quietly giving all they have for this great club. I want you to know that I have always worked very hard and tried my very best for this crest and this jersey."

"I wish you all the best and the success that I'm sure will come. Let's go Gunners! GOODBYE. THANKS FOR ALL!"

Unfortunately for Arsenal fans, they were unable to qualify for Europe for the first time in 25 years, finishing eighth in the Premier League and being eliminated in the semi-finals of the Europa League.

Ceballos will look back on his time in north London with mixed emotions, having recorded just two goals and five assists in all competitions across the last two seasons.