Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: 'Leaving Arsenal without a real goodbye hurts'

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 02 February 2022

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang admits that it hurts leaving Arsenal without a "real goodbye" after his deadline day move to Barcelona as a free agent.

Former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has admitted that it "hurts" to leave the Emirates Stadium without saying goodbye properly.

The 32-year-old's relationship with Mikel Arteta was broken beyond repair once the Gunners boss stripped him of the captaincy before Christmas, with his final game for the club coming in the 2-1 defeat to Everton on December 6.

Aubameyang's £350k-a-week contract was terminated after transfer deadline day, allowing the Gabon international to join Barcelona as a free agent, and he has now paid a heartfelt tribute to the Arsenal fans.

Aubameyang wrote on Instagram: "To the Arsenal fans, thank you for making London home for myself and my family for the past four years. We went through ups and downs together and your support meant everything to me.

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A post shared by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (@auba)

"Having the chance to win trophies and the honour of being the captain of this club is something I will forever keep in my heart. I have always been 100% focused and committed on doing everything I can for this club which is why leaving without a real goodbye hurts - but that is football.

"I'm sad I did not get the chance to help my teammates in the last few weeks, but I have nothing but respect for this club and truly wish all my guys and the fans all the best and many successful years in the future!"

Aubameyang's arrival at Barcelona is yet to be officially announced by the Catalans, but he was recently pictured in training with Xavi's side for the first time.

The former Borussia Dortmund man left Arsenal with 92 goals and 21 assists to his name from 163 appearances, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield during his four years in North London.