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LONDON – Mesut Ozil says he will be a “Gunner for life” after completing his free transfer from Arsenal to Turkish football giants Fenerbahce on Sunday.

The 32-year-old former Germany midfielder has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with the Turkish side.

He won three FA Cups with Arsenal and scored 44 goals in 254 appearances in all competitions for them, but has not played for the first team since March.

“It is difficult for me to put into words the love I feel for the club and the fans,” Ozil said in an open letter.

“How could I possibly describe eight years of gratitude in a single letter?

“I will be a Gunner for life – no doubt about that.”

He added: “Arsenal is a club of class and prestige, something that I felt every time I walked on to the pitch.

“Players, staff and management always come and go – but the club’s values and fans will remain forever.

“The principles of class, respect and dignity must never be forgotten. It is the responsibility of every single person from the club to make sure they carry out their job in the name of these values.” – BBC Sport