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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Simon Collings

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang takes parting dig at Mikel Arteta as he opens up on Arsenal exit

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has opened up on his Arsenal exit and said his problems were specifically with Mikel Arteta.

Aubameyang was officially unveiled as a Barcelona player on Thursday following his departure from Arsenal.

The 32-year-old striker left Arsenal by mutual consent after falling out with Arteta.

Aubameyang was exiled after being stripped of the captaincy in December and, speaking at his Barcelona unveiling, has opened up on the end of his time at Emirates Stadium.

"A difficult few months,” he said. “I've never wanted to do anything wrong, it's in the past."

Asked if the problem was just with Arteta, he added: "Yeah, I think it was just with him. I can't say much, he wasn't happy, I stayed calm and that's it."

Aubameyang has signed a three-and-a-half year contract at Barcelona until 2025 which includes a €100million buy-out clause.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at his Barcelona unveiling on Thursday (AFP via Getty Images)

"I haven't played a game in a long time but it's very clear in my head that I'll be ready soon to play and to help,” he said.

“I know we're going to get back to the top little by little.

"I've spoken a bit with [Barcelona coach] Xavi. He sees me playing as a No9 and I'll be there soon. But if he needs me on the wing that wouldn't be a problem."

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