Aubameyang excited to work under 'fantastic' Xavi after Barcelona move

The former Arsenal striker has made his first interview after joining Barcelona on a January move.

Barcelona signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a free agent a day after the winter transfer window’s deadline. The striker terminated his contract at Arsenal, ending his four-year stay at the English club.

Having joined the Catalans on a three-year contract, Aubameyang will replace Sergio Aguero, who announced his early retirement last year. The Gabon international has expressed his excitement over the prospect of working under Barca manager Xavi Hernandez.

He told the club’s official website: “I think that’s amazing to have [Xavi] as a coach.

“He has been a fantastic player that everyone knows, and I’m sure that as a coach he will bring us something that we will learn, definitely.”

Barcelona suffered an early exit from the Champions League after finishing third in Group E of the competition. The Catalans must now compete in Europa League while continuing their efforts to finish among the top four in La Liga.

The experienced striker says his goal is to bring Barcelona back to the Champions League.

“I am very proud [to be here], especially because my family is Spanish as well from my mother’s side,” he added.

“My main goal is to help the team and to give everything I can to bring the team back in the Champions League. I am just happy to be here and I will try to give everything.“

Aubameyang took part in Barcelona’s training for the first time on Wednesday. The former Arsenal captain has recently returned from a COVID-19 infection that brought his Africa Cup of Nations campaign to an early end.

Aubameyang can make his debut in Barca’s crucial league game against Atletico Madrid on Sunday. Barcelona will then meet Espanyol before their Europa League battle against Napoli on February 17.