Arsenal news: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ‘hurt’ as he leaves Gunners without a ‘real goodbye’
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park on May 19, 2021
The 32-year-old has spoken out for the first time since his deadline day departure from Arsenal.
Aubameyang was released from his contract on the final day of the January transfer window as Arsenal and Barcelona failed to agree a loan deal.
With the former Gunners captain frozen out of the team following a disciplinary breach in December, the club opted to release the player and save around £25million in wages.
The Gabon international is now a free agent and is expected to complete a move to Barcelona.
During his time at the Emirates, Aubameyang scored 92 goals in 163 appearances and helped the club to the FA Cup in 2020.
In a social media post, the striker had a message for Arsenal supporters saying: "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.
"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 per cent 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!"
