The 26-year-old had been with the north London club since he was a schoolboy, but after talks with new manager Unai Emery, it was made clear that he would not have a significant role to play going forward.
The Spaniard, who has been sidelined for the best part of two years, has returned to old club Villarreal where he will begin pre-season training and hopefully sign a new contract. Cazorla was one of the first Arsenal players to send their support to Wilshere after his decision to leave the club, and he has encouraged his teammate to join him in Spain.
Replying to Wilshere’s emotional Instagram message announcing his departure, Cazorla wrote: ‘Super come with me please! I wish you all the best you are a great player and a top man.’
Contract negotiations between Arsenal and Wilshere had been underway this month, what with the midfielder’s current deal set to expire in June.
Wilshere was even prepared to take a pay cut to remain in north London, but was told by new Gunners boss Unai Emery that he will not be a key part of his first team.
The Englishman confirmed the news he is leaving Arsenal on his Instagram account, where he wrote: “I felt that I was ultimately left with little choice but to make the decision that I have due to purely footballing reasons.
“Such was my desire to stay that I had in fact recently agreed to sign a financially reduced contract in order to commit my future to the club.
“My intention throughout these discussions has always been to remain an Arsenal player. I have been on the books at Arsenal for 17 years and have always felt part of the fabric of the club.
“Following my meeting with the new manager I was made aware that although the reduced contract offer remained, it was made clear to me that my playing time would be significantly reduced should I decide to stay.
“Given this, I feel I have no option but to pursue other opportunities in order to progress my career on the pitch.”
