Photo: Britta Zimmermann / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Christian Norgaard following the midfielder's confirmed transfer to Everton, describing the Dane as a player with a unique ability to improve those around him.
Norgaard, 32, made 20 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions during his single season at the club, departing as a Premier League champion.
"It's a message of admiration, love and I'm very thankful for what he brought to the club, how he helped us to win," Arteta said. "I think behind the scenes, we haven't seen what he's done, but I think he's a player that has a unique quality to make others better, to maintain a culture to the highest standards."
Arteta acknowledged the difficulty of letting Norgaard leave but accepted the move was necessary for the player's development. "It was difficult to let him go. I understand it's a stage in his career that he needs to play and fulfil as well, all their dreams, but (we're) forever thankful," the Arsenal head coach added.
The transfer was confirmed shortly after Arsenal's pre-season fixture against Real Betis on 5 August.