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Arsenal's Mathieu Flamini rejected new two-year deal from AC Milan to return to Emirates
ARSENAL midfielder Mathieu Flamini has revealed that he snubbed a new deal from AC Milan and offers elsewhere to return to the Emirates.
The French midfielder re-signed on a two-year deal at the end of the transfer window, having initially left in 2008 to join Milan.
Flamini made his debut earlier this month in Arsenal's derby day victory over Spurs.
"Milan asked me to extend my contract for two years," Flamini told France Football.
"However, at 29 years old, I didn't want to sign for anything less than three seasons. I had other opportunities in Italy where clubs other than Milan contacted me, as well as from sides in Germany and England.
"At this stage of my career it was an important choice, so I took time to think. To maintain my fitness I decided to train with Arsenal and then over time the deal unfolded."
Flamini also revealed Arsene Wenger played a key role in convincing him to come back to Arsenal.
"He introduced me to the best league, the Premier League, and has taught me on many levels, tactical, technical and mental.
"We have the means to participate in the title race, even if we are outsiders. I wish to write a beautiful new story with Arsenal."