Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has claimed “ Arsenal, it's nothing personal” as he attempts to stir tensions between the two clubs ahead of this weekend’s clash.
The two London rivals face off at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon with the Gunners attempting to continue their stunning start to the campaign. Whilst the match itself is huge from the perspective of the title race, it is set to be an even bigger one for Aubameyang himself.
The Gabonese forward is likely to make his first appearance against his former side since leaving - having sealed an explosive exit to Spanish giants Barcelona following a falling-out with boss Mikel Arteta.
He was stripped of the captaincy at the Emirates Stadium due to a disciplinary breach before then sealing a move to the Camp Nou on deadline day. A viral video then shortly resurfaced of Aubameyang criticising Arteta.
He said: "Big characters and big players...he [Arteta] can't deal with it. He needs some young players who don't say anything. They listen.”
The striker then issued a further statement clarifying his comments, whilst also teeing up an intriguing showdown between both his old and new club.
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"Aware there is a video out that was recorded just after I arrived at Barca. At the time I still had a lot of bad feelings in me - Arsenal are doing great things this season and I wish all my old guys well, just not on November 6,” Aubameyang said.
Now though, the striker has attempted to get viewers whipped up having starred in BT Sport’s latest teaser for this weekend’s game. Their latest TV advert features iconic images of Thierry Henry, Joe Cole, Didier Drogba, as well as the infamous touchline clash between former bosses Jose Mourinho and Arsene Wenger.
Aubameyang also stars and had a simple message for his former side ahead of the game. Speaking directly into the camera, he said: “Arsenal, nothing personal.”
“I’m back. I’m blue. I’m ready,” the 33-year-old continued.
Aubameyang of course scored 92 goals in 163 appearances for the Gunners having helped the club to the FA Cup. He has endured a somewhat inconsistent start to life with Chelsea with three goals in his opening 11 appearances for the Blues in all competitions. His only goal back in the Premier League came in Chelsea’s 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace last month.
Should he help his new side to victory then the Blues could potentially move above Manchester United into fifth place. Meanwhile, Arsenal have the opportunity to extend their advantage at the top of the league to five points with victory should Manchester City lose to Fulham.
