Mesut Ozil says he followed his heart when pledging the next three-and-a-half years of his career to Arsenal by signing a new contract.
The Germany international had long been linked with a move away from north London, speculation going into overdrive after he entered the final year of his previous deal in July 2017.
But the 29-year-old committed his future to the Gunners on Thursday, agreeing terms which are understood to tie him to the club until the end of the 2020-21 season.
Although media rumours often left Arsenal supporters fearing Ozil would follow a similar path to Alexis Sanchez, the former Werder Bremen player said he needed to give himself as much time as possible to think things over.
In a post on his official Instagram account, Ozil wrote: "Proud to announce: I signed dat thing.
"Three more years with @Arsenal! It's been one of the most important decisions of my footballing career and that's why I had to think hard and talk with everyone who's important to me...
"Good things take time! In the end I let my heart decide. As I always said, I feel at home here and I'm highly motivated to achieve big things in the next few years. Once a Gunner, always a Gunner!"
Confirmation of Ozil's extension completes a positive few days for Arsenal off the field, the club having also signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Borussia Dortmund for a club-record fee on Wednesday.
