‘My problem was only with Arteta’
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has opened up on his final months at Arsenal in an honest interview, revealing what happened in the breakdown in relationship between him and Mikel Arteta.
Aubameyang endured a torrid end to his career at the Emirates Stadium after he was frozen out by Gunners boss Arteta before moving to Barcelona on transfer deadline day.
Negotiating the deal proved to be difficult with many expecting a loan to be completed between the two. However, Arsenal instead released him from his contract – allowing the forward to move to the Catalan club on a free.
The 32-year-old hadn’t played for Arsenal since December and during his official unveiling as a new Barça player, gave an insight into why he felt he needed to move on.
🎙 @Auba: ❝ I am ready to play ❞ 💪 pic.twitter.com/WNzhEJESmW
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 3, 2022
“My last few months at Arsenal were complicated, that’s football sometimes,” Aubameyang said.
“For my part, I never wanted to do anything wrong. My problem was only with Arteta. I can’t say much more, I wasn’t happy.”
Barcelona’s latest arrival also spoke on the future of new teammate Ousmane Dembélé.
Dembélé has turned down numerous contract offers from the club and has just six months left on his deal. The winger had options from both Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, but stayed put. It now seems likely that both sides will go back in for Dembélé in the summer, when they can sign him for free.
Aubameyang, who used to play with the Frenchman at Borussia Dortmund, urged the 24-year-old to stay at the Nou Camp to win trophies. Though he admitted it would be hard to influence him, whilst adding that he needs to hit the ground running.
“As I said before, I hope that both parties find a solution. I cannot decide that.” he said.
“Every player that comes here has to adapt. I have to adapt, but I’m ready to play. I’ve seen a lot of games and I can adapt and play.”
Related links:
- Joan Laporta claims he still believes that Dembélé is better than Mbappe
- Joan Laporta slams Ousmane Dembélé’s decision to stay at Barcelona
- Aubameyang to Barcelona looks like it might actually be happening now
