BREAKING NEWS: After so many years,I believe this is actually the right time to say the truth on what really transpired between me and Arteta before I left”, Aubameyang finally reveals the hidden truth behind His departure from Emirate back then
In a recent interview, former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang opened up about his departure from the club, attributing much of the circumstances surrounding his exit to the managing style and decisions of Mikel Arteta. The Gabonese international, who had enjoyed a prolific stint at the Emirates Stadium, revealed that the relationship between player and manager played a pivotal role in his eventual move to Barcelona.
Aubameyang joined Arsenal in January 2018 and quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s most feared forwards. His pace, clinical finishing, and ability to perform in critical moments, including a memorable FA Cup final performance in 2020, endeared him to Arsenal fans. However, his last season with the Gunners was marred by inconsistent performances and disciplinary issues, leading to a rift with Arteta.
In his latest remarks, Aubameyang claimed that his relationship with Arteta deteriorated significantly during the 2021-22 season. He cited a lack of communication and understanding as significant factors that contributed to his decision to leave the club. “Mikel is a great manager, but sometimes we didn’t see eye to eye,” Aubameyang explained. “There were moments when I felt misunderstood and unappreciated. I wanted to give my all for the club, but things just didn’t work out the way I had hoped.”
One of the most telling aspects of Aubameyang’s comments was his assertion that the club’s direction under Arteta was not aligned with his personal aspirations. He expressed a desire to be involved in key matches and contribute significantly, yet felt sidelined at crucial moments. The captaincy saga, which included a public fallout over disciplinary issues, further strained their relationship. “It became clear to me that my future was no longer with Arsenal when I wasn’t given the opportunities I felt I deserved,” he added.
Ultimately, a combination of professional and personal factors culminated in his departure to Barcelona in January 2022, where he found rejuvenation and a chance to regain his form. Aubameyang’s reflections serve as a reminder of the complexities in football management and player relationships. While Arteta has since continued to build a promising squad at Arsenal, Aubameyang’s admission highlights that the road to success can often be fraught with challenges, especially when it comes to the dynamics between player and coach. His journey serves as a testament to the importance of understanding and communication in football, a lesson that all clubs can learn from as they navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the sport.