Freddie Ljungberg has questioned Arsenal's ambition
after leaving the club for West Ham.
The Swede, who was the club's longest serving player prior to his
move to Upton Park, felt the time was right to move on after nine
years in North London.
Ljungberg admitted the departure of Thierry Henry played a part in
his decision to leave and he also questioned the club's failure to
match his own ambitions by bringing in new players.
"Two years ago when I signed my last contract we talked a lot about
the future and about bringing great players to the club," said
Ljungberg. "Despite building the new stadium we wanted to stay top
in England and do well in Europe.
"For me that didn't really happen.
"I stayed because I wanted to stay loyal to Arsenal. But when Henry
left this summer it felt like the end for me unfortunately.
"I felt like all the unbeaten players (from Arsenal's 'invincibles'
of 2003/04) had left. I wanted to be loyal but I felt like it was
the right time.
Despite his doubts over Arsenal's plans for the future, Ljungberg
admitted it was a wrench to leave the club.
"I've been there for nine years, almost 10 years," continued
Ljungberg.
"It's a big thing for me and I feel it in my heart a little
bit.
"When I spoke to the boss, he wanted me to stay.
"But at the same time, I feel it had to be something very, very
special for me to leave.
"I want to go forward and, with the people I have around me, I
think it's going to be really good."
