Aubameyang reflects on his transfer to Barcelona: From despair to a new beginning
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has opened up about one of the most challenging periods of his career, detailing his transition from Arsenal to FC Barcelona in 2022. The Gabonese striker, who faced significant struggles during his final days in England, describes his move to the Spanish giants as a moment of profound personal and professional rebirth.
Aubameyang’s time at Arsenal came to a tumultuous end, marked by a series of off-field issues and a loss of form on the pitch.
He was eventually deemed surplus to requirements at the North London club, which led to a period of deep depression.
“Before signing for Barça, I was depressed because of my parents’ health, and I started drinking a lot,” Aubameyang admitted, shedding light on the personal battles that compounded his professional challenges.
The turning point came when FC Barcelona offered him a lifeline. The Catalan club, in need of a proven goalscorer, saw potential in the then 32-year-old forward, despite his recent struggles.
“Barça gave me my chance, and I will always be grateful,” Aubameyang reflected. “I have never enjoyed playing football and going to training so much. I even went to train on my days off.”
Aubameyang’s move to Barcelona during the 2022 winter transfer window was seen as a fresh start. Joining the club on a free transfer, he quickly found his rhythm at Camp Nou.
Over the course of the season, Aubameyang scored 13 goals and provided 1 assist in 24 appearances, reminding everyone of the lethal striker he had been during his peak years.
His time at Barcelona, however, was short-lived. Despite his impressive form, Aubameyang’s stay at the club lasted only until the summer of 2022, when circumstances once again saw him moving on.
Reflecting on this, he expressed a deep sense of attachment to the club. “I would have liked to stay a long time,” Aubameyang admitted, indicating that he had found a true sense of belonging at Barcelona.
Following his departure from Barcelona, Aubameyang’s career took him to several other clubs, including Chelsea and Olympique de Marseille. He currently plays for Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia.
Despite the continued twists and turns in his career, Aubameyang looks back on his time at Barcelona as a period of rejuvenation, a chapter that allowed him to rediscover his passion for the game.
As he continues his journey in football, Aubameyang’s story serves as a reminder of the resilience required to navigate the highs and lows of a professional athlete’s life.
His experience at Barcelona, though brief, was a pivotal moment that helped him rebuild both his career and his sense of self-worth.