Olivier Giroud admits he came close to leaving Arsenal in the summer due to a lack of game time.
The Gunners striker was linked with a move to Everton, West Ham and Marseille during the last transfer window.
However, the Frenchman performed a U-turn because he wanted to stay at the Emirates and fight for his place, despite the £52million signing of Alexandre Lacazette.
He said: "It is true I was close to leaving as I wanted to play but after big reflection I wanted to stay. The story was not over at Arsenal.
"As I said to the boss, our story is not finished, and everyone was pleased with that."
Arsene Wenger believes making the top four is Arsenal's best hope of reaching next season's Champions League.
The Gunners kick off their Europa League campaign at home to Cologne on Thursday.
Wenger saw Manchester United win the competition last season after finishing sixth in the Premier League as Jose Mourinho prioritised European fixtures.
But the Arsenal boss believes the Premier League still offers the best opportunity for his side.
"It is not the best chance but it is one of the opportunities," he said."I think the best way to do it is through the Premier League. We did that for 20 years.
"We don't calculate this is the best way to the Champions League qualifiers. But it is an opportunity and we want to win every competition we play in."