Serge Aurier has spoken publicly for the first time since his contract was terminated at Tottenham on transfer deadline day, sending supporters a heartfelt message on social media, which included a dig at Arsenal following recent links.
The Ivorian ended his four-year affiliation with the club when Spurs decided to release him back on 31 August following the arrival of Emerson Royal from Barcelona.
Aurier has been without a club ever since, but finally found a new home when he recently secured a move to Villarreal, joining ex-Tottenham duo Juan Foyth and Etienne Capoue, who helped the Spanish outfit win the Europa League last season.
Since Aurier’s Tottenham departure, he’s been linked with several European clubs, including a shock move to Arsenal, according to Sky Sports.
However, the right-back said on Instagram that he would “never join the enemy” because he has too much respect for the club and never wanted to play for another Premier League club anyway.
He said: “First of all, I would like to thank all the Spurs fans for these four wonderful seasons with you.
“They were all different but I leave with some great memories. I really enjoyed playing the game wearing your colours proudly.
“It is true that not everything was perfect, there were moments of joy and sadness but know one thing, I have always played 100 per cent, without cheating!
“I have never seen myself at another club in England if not at your place! And I didn’t see myself joining the enemy even less because I have too much respect for our club, for our history and for all our moments shared together.
“You have shown unfailing support during these four seasons and I really want to thank you because you have given me so much!
“The last few months have not been easy and I would have liked to say goodbye to you on better terms, but each story comes to an end, you have to know how to accept it and move on!”
“I am now speaking to you, my former team-mates, my brothers with whom I have lived so much. I really enjoyed playing with you, I know you will miss me especially in our locker room where I liked to set the mood.
“I wish you the best for this season and I promise I will be seeing you again, you will not be forgetting me anytime soon! Good luck @spursofficial.”
