Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been a key player for arsenal since his arrival (Getty Images)
Arsenal fans can finally rest easy as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has put an end to all speculation and signed a new three-year contract with the club. (h/t BBC Sport).
His previous contract was set to expire at the end of this season which had driven a transfer frenzy regarding his next destination. Now that the captain has committed to the club, everyone associated with the club can breathe a sigh of relief and look forward to the future.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang started his youth career at ASL L’Huisserie in 1995 and moved to OGC Nizza in 1997.
The 31-year-old Gabonese star played for more youth sides such as Stade Laval (1999), FC Rouen (2001), SC Bastia (2005) and AC Milan (2007). In his first season after moving to the Milan first-team, he was loaned out to Dijon in 2008. Another two loan spells followed at Lille and Monaco.
A permanent transfer to St. Etienne was agreed in 2011. It was here that Auba finally broke free and started his goal barrage. In 97 games, he scored 41 goals and produced another 25 assists. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Borussia Dortmund secured his services in 2013 as they looked to replace a certain Robert Lewandowski. Auba had a successful stint in the Black and Yellow with his 141 goals and 36 assists in 213 games (h/t Transfermarkt).
Arsene Wenger then brought Auba to England when he signed for the Gunners in 2018. He has continued on his merry way and slammed 72 goals and 15 assists in just 111 games for the London side. His numbers for Gabon aren’t too bad either with 20 goals in 51 games.
Aubameyang is a serial goal-getter, something that a club like Arsenal desperately need. He is an extremely versatile player who can and has played across the frontline for the club. Left-wing, right-wing, center-forward, you name it. He has slotted in any position the club has needed him to, based on their requirement.
The forward was given the club captaincy last season to show the club’s faith in him and he has not disappointed so far. He has looked focused on the club and helped them win the FA Cup and Community Shield.
A new contract was very necessary in Auba’s case as the club can’t afford to lose a proven goalscorer like him. He won the golden boot in his first full season at the club and finished just one goal short last season (h/t Independent). Arsenal, at this point, don’t have anyone who can take his place and contribute goals at his rate.
Aubameyang is probably one of the few reasons that Arsenal haven’t dwindled into mediocrity. Instead under his leadership on the pitch, the club have looked more confident than ever. So, him signing a new deal is a massive boost for the club. And, the future looks bright for Arsenal with Auba donning the captain’s armband.
