Arteta: Arsenal move is for best

Arsenal signing Mikel Arteta insists his exit from Everton is in the best interests of his former club.

The Spaniard was a key player for David Moyes’ team and he believes the club’s perilous financial situation meant they could not refuse Arsenal’s last-minute offer for his services.

Arteta said on Friday that chairman Bill Kenwright was looking to safeguard the future of the club, even though he did not want to sell the popular midfielder.

“I know the chairman, he didn’t want to sell anyone, he was devastated for me to leave, but I think they had to (let me go). They don’t want a situation in two years’ time where the club is in bits. I know he is trying to get the club in the best position it can,” Arteta told Sky Sports.

“I don’t want them (the fans) to blame the chairman or the manager – it was the best option for everyone for the situation they are in at the moment.”

“They’ve got an unbelievable dressing room, a great manager, they always find some way to get up the table. I’m sure he can do the same again.”

“I have given everything for Everton, I have always tried my best and I made my decision (in) the best (interests) of the club. I’d like to thank the fans for their support.”

Meanwhile, Everton signing Denis Stracqualursi believes he can be successful at Goodison Park after arriving on loan from Argentine side Tigre.

The striker joined on a season-long loan on deadline day and will give them extra firepower up front after winning the golden boot in Argentina’s top flight last season with 11 goals in 19 games.

“I am a striker who plays in the penalty box. I am good at heading the ball and I am strong but I am also good with my feet. But I am here to get in the box and score goals,” Stracqualursi told Sky Sports.