Aubameyang might not sign for Barcelona because of a family promise

Martin Macdonald

• 17 Dec 2021 12:09 GMT
• 3 min read

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is on the cusp of an Arsenal departure after falling out with manager Mikel Arteta.

The Gunners forward has been exiled from the squad and stripped of the captaincy at the Emirates after ongoing disciplinary issues, believed to be surrounding punctuality.

There was already speculation prior to the punishment that he could leave in January, and that speculation has only intensified now, with Barcelona the most likely destination.

The Blaugrana are desperate for attacking reinforcements, particularly in the centre-forward position.

TRENDNG

Premier League top scorers 2023/24: Haaland & Palmer top two before final day

Which football managers have been sacked this season?

Man Utd top scorers 2023/24: Hojlund and Fernandes lead before Brighton battle

Sergio Aguero has been forced to retire, while Martin Braithwaite and Luuk de Jong are not rated by new head coach Xavi.

Barca have been linked with a number of forwards, including Edinson Cavani, Anthony Martial, Raheem Sterling, Ferran Torres, Karim Adeyemi and Alexis Sanchez.

Aubameyang's situation at Arsenal means that he is one of the most viable options, even if they need to reduce their wage budget before bringing players in.

However, Aubameyang may not be keen on the move due to a promise he made to his grandfather before he died.

His grandfather, a Spaniard, was a Real Madrid fan, and Aubameyang made him a promise that he would attempt to play for Los Blancos in his career.

What did Aubameyang say about Real Madrid?

"Before he died two years ago I promised him that one day I would play for Real Madrid," he told L'Equipe.

"My grandfather was from Avila, not far from Madrid.

"It’s what I said to him. I know it’s not easy but it’s something I keep in mind.

"I celebrate my goals with a cartwheel in honour of Hugo Sanchez.

"I've seen many videos of him on the internet and I’ve been following him since I was a boy."

At the moment, it is unlikely that Real Madrid will make a move for Aubameyang as they are still planning on signing Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer in the summer.