Alexis Sanchez has revealed that he sent Arsene Wenger text messages wishing him good luck for the future after the Frenchman called time on his 22-year reign at Arsenal.
On Friday, Wenger announced his decision to stand down at the end of the season, bringing his long tenure in North London to an end.
Sanchez was signed by Wenger from Barcelona in July 2014 and made a name for himself as one of the best players in the Premier League before leaving for Manchester United in January.
"I texted him yesterday to wish him the best," the Chilean told Sky Sports News after United's 2-1 FA Cup semi-final win over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.
"I could not say anything on social media but I texted him and he replied to me saying thank you to me.
"It's sad because he is a historical football legend, I always said he is a gentleman and a football master, he taught me a lot about respect and to be professional. I'm just so thankful to him."
Sanchez scored 80 goals in 165 appearances for Arsenal, and won two FA Cups and a Community Shield during his time at the club.