Aubameyang Reveals How Arteta Convinced Him To Re-Sign With Arsenal

The suspense is over as far as the future of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is concerned. The Gabon national is staying with Arsenal FC although some are still curious how he came up with the decision. It turns out that Mikel Arteta had a big hand in it, telling the 31-year-old that he could become a legend for the Gunners if he stayed.

Aubameyang ended the suspense surrounding his future recently when he signed a fresh three-year deal with Arsenal. Though his deal was set to expire at the end of the season, the Gunners need to hustle to make sure that the Gabon captain would not go anywhere. Barcelona and Inter Milan had an interest in Aubmeyang though all those are now moot and academic.

In an interview with former Arsenal player Ian Wright, Aubameyang reveals how Arteta struck the right tune when he was told that he could build a legacy at Emirates Stadium. He admits that it was something he was thinking of for the past year and things just fell into place.

"He was straight and honest and that's what I like because we are always honest. He said: 'Okay, you can maybe leave. I don't know what your mind is [thinking] right now, but you can leave and go for trophies at other clubs or you can stay here and have a legacy',” Aubameyang said. "This, for me, was the key word."

It will be recalled that despite the links of Aubameyang to other teams, Arteta seemed unfazed. He was pretty confident seeing the 31-year-old re-signed with the Gunners. It turns out the two were in constant communication, talking about football and other stuff.

Ironically, Barca tried to make a pitch to Aubameyang but was a tad late since the deal was sealed. The Catalan giants are looking for added attacking options with Ronald Koeman wary of Luis Suarez’s future, Sky Sports reported.

Suarez was one of the players allegedly told by Koeman as not being part of the club’s plans. He was linked to a possible move to Juventus but nothing has progressed. Atletico Madrid is also interested but talks have not made significant progress.