Former Arsenal captain, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, has broken his silence on his contentious departure from the Gunners, revealing a tense fallout with manager Mikel Arteta.
In an interview with @Colininterview, Aubameyang shared that Arteta accused him of “putting a knife in his back.” This accusation came after Aubameyang, who played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s FA Cup victory under Arteta, was given a new long-term contract and the captaincy just 18 months before his abrupt exit to Barcelona.
The Gabonese striker’s departure followed his omission from the squad for a game against Southampton, after being used as a late substitute in a loss to Everton. Arteta did not publicly explain the reason for Aubameyang’s absence, but it was linked to the player returning late from visiting his sick mother, thereby breaching COVID-19 protocols.
Aubameyang recounted his conversation with Arteta, explaining that he had sought permission to visit his mother, who had suffered a stroke, during the Christmas period. Arteta had initially granted this request, but reacted angrily when Aubameyang returned a day later than expected due to his mother’s medical appointments.
The fallout resulted in Aubameyang being told by the club doctor that he would no longer train with the group. In a subsequent meeting, Arteta informed him that he was being stripped of the captaincy and would not be included in team training.
Reflecting on the incident, Aubameyang said, “It affects a man, it was difficult.” He expressed confusion over Arteta’s reaction, given that the coach was aware of the reason for his departure. The striker’s revelations shed new light on one of the most decisive actions taken by Arteta during his tenure as Arsenal coach.
