Andrey Arshavin to leave Arsenal, rubbishes retirement talks

Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin is all set to leave Premier League side Arsenal when his contract expires at the end of the season, club manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed.

"I don't think he will stay here, because he doesn't play enough," said Wenger.

Arshavin was signed from Zenit St Petersburg for a reported 15 million Pounds in January 2009 and will be out of contract this summer.

The 31-year-old has scored just one goal this season, which came in Arsenal's 6-1 win over Coventry City in the League Cup last September.

However, Wenger heaped praise on the Russian international, saying the midfielder never fell short of commitment.

"He is at the end of his contract at the end of the season, then he will decide what he will do. But he has shown 100 per cent commitment at absolutely every session, he has been an example for everybody.

"He has been questioned many times about his commitment, but if you saw him every day you would respect him for what he does on a daily basis. He has been absolutely fantastic," Wenger said.

Meanwhile, Arshavin has shrugged off retirement reports but also blamed Wenger for his exit.

"It's clear I'm going to leave Arsenal. It was Arsene's decision he didn't use me but I still train and I feel fit enough to play. I do not see any problems playing for another team," Arshavin said.

Arshavin said he is physically fit and he is even open to play for any other Premier League side.

"Of course, every player wants to play. The problem is not physical, it is a mental problem. I'd consider if there is an offer from another Premier League club. I'm open from Germany or Spain, if there was an offer there or Russia," Arshavin said.