Ollie Watkins says "Birmingham will always be home, and so will Villa" in a farewell video posted on social media.
The 30-year-old striker, who is Villa's record Premier League scorer with 91 goals, has completed a £51m move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
The England international made himself unavailable for Villa's Premier League opener against Brighton last weekend, which Emery said Watkins apologised for.
"Firstly, I would like to say, never did I intend, nor did I imagine, my time at Aston Villa would end this way," Watkins posted.
"With that being said, I am eternally grateful for the last six years. Not only has it shaped me as a player, but as a person.
"We've been through so many ups and downs in my six seasons here, but one thing that has never changed is that I have given everything for this club.
"From my first goals in the 7-2 win over Liverpool to getting the club back into Europe, the Champions League nights at Villa Park to that unforgettable night in Istanbul and becoming Villa's record Premier League goalscorer.
"It is an achievement that I never thought would be possible when I signed for the club.
"I want to thank everyone who has contributed to my time here, Dean Smith, Steven Gerrard and especially Unai Emery for always believing in me.
"My two children were born here, and to see them walk on to the pitch and see you fans sing my name in front of them and my family is something that will always stay with me forever.
"Birmingham will always be home, and so will Villa."
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