Rosicky explains Atletico snub

Tomas Rosicky has explained why he rejected the overtures of Atletico Madrid.

The Liga giants had been leading the chase for the Czech midfielder for the last few months and almost signed him in January.

However, Arsenal have swooped to snatch Rosicky from under the noses of Atletico for a fee believed to be around £7 million.

"Atletico have been interested on a long time basis but they never came up with a specific offer," Rosicky said.

"That is why I wanted to put Atletico out of my head and I am absolutely excited about how things have worked out.

"I am not lazy and I have big motivation for the future. I will not experience the magic of Highbury where I once played with Sparta Prague though, but the new stadium is gorgeous."

Rosicky added on Sky Sports News: "It is a strong side with big potential, and I think it could be much better next year and as I said before I am very happy I can give everything for Arsenal.

'Little Mozart' as he is known in his homeland, admitted Thierry Henry's decision to stay was a big boost.

"It was great news, he is the best striker in the world," he said.

Atletico president Enrique Cerezo was disappointed to learn of Rosicky's decision - but insists his club will move on and buy an even better player.

"I always said that it was a subject that was not closed," said Cerezo.

"We were in negotiations and in the end what we wanted to pay was not what was wanted in Borussia Dortmund.

"We made a good offer and a good offer to the player, but the market is a free competition and another team arrived that was prepared to pay more than we were.

"Arsenal has gone for it and had much luck, but here there is calm as there are many players we will try and bring in who are equal or better than Rosicky."