Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires signed for Spanish side Villarreal, ending six glorious years with the Gunners, the La Liga powerhouse announced through their official website on Thursday. "I am delighted to agree this deal with Villarreal, and I hope I will be able to help them build on their impressive achievements of the last two years," Pires told the club's official website. Villarreal played a great UEFA Champions League campaign this season, after reaching the semi-finals, but their domestic form wasn't that great as they finished seventh in the Spanish league standings, which drove them to start reinforcing their squad with new players for next season, starting with Pires. Pires, whose contract with Arsenal was due to expire this summer, was hoping to extend it for two more years, but a new contract wasn't agreed with coach Arsene Wenger who wanted to extend the player's contract for one year only. Despite not agreeing a contract to stay at Arsenal, the 32-year-old praised his former coach, saying that he'll never forget the time he spent at the club. "After six wonderful years, full of fantastic moments, I have decided to accept the challenge at Villarreal," Pires told Arsenal's official website. "I am very grateful to Arsene Wenger, the players and the fans for their amazing support over the years," Pires added. Wenger said that Pires' contribution to the club over the past six seasons was great adding that he is sad to see him go. "Robert has made a huge contribution to the club's success in the time he spent here, he's not only a great footballer but a good man, and I'd like to thank him for the determination, dedication and passion he showed during his time here," Wenger said.
