If Arsenal’s captain, Aubameyang leaves Arsenal, he “would cost zillions to replace” and manager Arteta wants to “build his squad around him”. But, will he stay in the Emirates?
The Arsenal striker, Aubameyang played a huge significance in the FA Cup final against Chelsea. He drilled in two goals in a memorable victory to cement a place in next season’s Europa League.
The captain became the fifth player to score two or more goals in a cup match at Wembley on more than one occasion. Meanwhile, he joined former Arsenal striker Ian Wright, Ian Rush, Bryan Robson, and Eric Cantona to score more goals in a cup match.
The manager and fans love Aubameyang. But with one year left on his contract at the Gunners, has the 31-year-old Gabon striker played his last game for Arsenal?
When pressed about the striker’s future, Mikel Arteta said he thinks Aubameyang will stay.
“He knows what I think about him. I want to build the squad around him. I think he wants to stay and it is just about getting the deal done”.
“These moments will help him realize and believe that we are on the right path and he is a big part of that. He is loved by everybody at the club. Hopefully, he can continue with us”. Said Arteta.
Nonetheless, Aubameyang was coyer when asked about his future in Arsenal. He said there was “nothing” to say before he runs off to lift the trophy.
Having said that, teammates Rob Holding and an emotional Emiliano Martinez were full of surprise for their skipper.
“Aubameyang seems to do it on the break-in every game. He is our talisman and has done it all season”. Said Holding.
“I said to him before the game, you are going to win us the game”. Added Martinez whose tears went down his cheeks at full-time.
Having won the FA Cup 2019/20, It lies with Aubameyang if he will extend his contract or leave to a more “trophy-winning side”.
Aubameyang FA Cup special
The Gabon international has now scored 13 goals for Arsenal in 2020. He has become the second Arsenal player to score twice in an FA Cup final, after Reg Lewis in 1950.
Also, the striker is the only second player in the last 15 FA Cup finals to score a penalty after Eden Hazard for Chelsea in 2018.
Seemingly, at 31 years and 44 days old, the captain is the second-oldest goalscorer for Arsenal in the FA Cup after Robert John in 1932.