Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang targets comeback after knee surgery

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is determined to return stronger from the first major injury of his career after undergoing surgery for a meniscus problem sustained during Deportivo de La Coruna’s match against Real Betis.

The former Arsenal striker suffered the injury while attempting to keep the ball in play during the September encounter. He explained that he immediately sensed something was wrong after landing awkwardly, with subsequent discomfort confirming his concerns.

“It’s the first time in my career that I’ve been injured for more than ten days. Mentally it was hard at first, but my brothers from Italy arrived and now I’m eager to come back,” Aubameyang said.

The striker, who received Deportivo’s award for the club’s best player in September, has already made progress in his rehabilitation. He is now walking without crutches and has started working on a stationary bicycle as he gradually rebuilds his fitness.

Aubameyang is avoiding setting a firm return date, although the expected recovery period is between six and eight weeks. He insists that his knee must feel comfortable before he increases his workload.

The 37-year-old also offered encouragement to teammate Bil Nsongo, who faces greater responsibility in attack during his absence.

“He doesn’t have to fall under the pressure of being the only striker now. Anyway, Nsongo is worth two forwards,” he joked.

Aubameyang remains optimistic about returning to action and promised fans that his trademark backflip celebrations would resume once he receives medical clearance.