Thanks for the memories, Cesc

Morning all

The Cesc Fabregas departure was official last night, and I woke up this morning hoping it was all just a dream. Sadly, it wasn't a dream. I did however, sign for Werder Bremen and only one journalist turn up to my press conference. Read into that what you will.

Even though I've been waiting for this all summer, it still hurts to see our captain leave the club. Cesc has performed brilliantly in the 8 years he was here, and thoroughly deserved to win some trophies. I have no doubt he will now go on to have a trophy laden spell at Barcelona. Those who say he won't get in their team are bitter, he's too good a player to be left out. Even if they have to change their setup, Barcelona will find space for him. Until then, he will be found in Xavi's arms.

The money being banded about is roughly in the region of £30-£35 million, and it is a very good deal for Barcelona. We can't really have too much complaints though, considering the amount we initially paid for him.

It is now time for us to move on, draw a line under this saga and move forward as a team. As the Arsenal. Players come and go but the club remains. It will be refreshingly to have a summer without reading about Barcelona wanting one of our players.

I'd be shocked if we sign a like for like replacement for Cesc. I'm sure Arsene Wenger has a few players lined up, to add more depth to the squad. Murmurs of Brazillian Jadson signing from Ukraine club Shakhtar Donetsk are doing the rounds this morning, so it shows Arsene is active as expected. Our transfer activity has been fairly minimal so far but now the Fabregas saga is sorted out, I'm hoping for a lot more activity. I'm still hoping for Juan Mata and Gary Cahill. Sign those two players and I'd be extremely happy with this squad.

Well Cesc, you've given me many great memories. From pizza throwing, to scoring brilliant goals against Tottenham and AC Milan to winding up Phil Brown, it's been a hell of a journey. I wish you nothing but success in Barcelona, and I hope many gooners do likewise.

Thanks for the memories.