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Aubameyang provides update on his heart issue

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The Arsenal striker ended his AFCON campaign early due to a post-COVID issue.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returned from the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this week to undergo medical exams. The striker tested positive for COVID-19 on January 6, two days after Gabon’s arrival in Cameroon.

Aubameyang tested negative for the virus a week later. However, he suffered a post-Covid heart inflammation that forced him to leave AFCON without playing a game. The Gabon captain posted an update on his fitness on Thursday.

I came back to London to do some additional checks, and I’m very happy to say that my heart is absolutely fine and I’m completely healthy!!” he wrote on Instagram.

“Really appreciate all the messages over the last few days and I’m already back at it.”

Aubameyang has not played for Arsenal since December 6. Mikel Arteta stripped him of captaincy while also excluding him from his squad due to ‘disciplinary reasons’. 

The former Borussia Dortmund striker still has 18 months on his current Arsenal deal. But, he might leave the club as soon as this winter. Saudi Arabian club Al Sadd are reportedly keen to sign the 32-year-old on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. However, the Gunners are yet to give their response to the bid as they are not sure whether they can quickly sign a replacement.

Arsenal’s main option for the number nine position is Dusan Vlahovic. But, the club will most likely wait until the summer to make a formal bid for the Serbia international.

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