Krystian Bielik has admitted that he was disappointed at not being given the chance to prove himself to Arsenal head coach Unai Emery.
The 21-year-old left the Gunners during the summer transfer window to join Derby County after being deemed surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium.
The Poland Under-21 international only made two first-team appearances during his time with the Premier League club, but the centre-back 'hoped' to be given a chance during the 2019-20 campaign.
"I was hoping that I would get a chance under Unai Emery but it turned out that he couldn't see me in his plans," Bielik told Sport.PL.
"At the Euros, I wanted to show myself well and hoped that I was watched by the club and I could do a lot with good performances. Then, before the Championships, AC Milan's offer appeared, but ultimately nothing came of it.
"I don't want to say it's a shame now. I love Arsenal and playing for this club was my dream. However, it was necessary to stray from this path. I came to the club from the Championship, where I will play and gain experience. I think that after the next season, if I play regularly, I will be ready for the Premier League."
Bielik has spent time on loan with Charlton Athletic and Derby over the last couple of seasons.