By Bariyo Brian Tumuramye
Having put pen to paper on his new deal, Arsenal’s 31-year-old captain broke the news on internet and on social media by telling fans live that he was staying, with the ambition to lift more trophies and leave a long-term legacy.
The Gabon international signed from Borussia Dortmund in January 2018 and has since made 111 appearances and scored 72 goals. In his first full season with Arsenal, Auba jointly won the Premier League Golden Boot with 22 goals.
Last season he netted 29 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions, scoring twice in the Heads Up FA Cup final victory against Chelsea. He kicked off this season in similar fashion, scoring against Liverpool in the Community Shield as Arsenal lifted the trophy on penalties.
“Signing for this special club was never in doubt,” Auba said. “It’s thanks to our fans, my team-mates, my family and everybody at this club that I feel like I belong here. I believe in Arsenal. We can achieve big things together. We have something exciting here and I believe the best is to come for Arsenal.”
Mikel Arteta the coach added: “It was important for Pierre-Emerick to stay with us. He’s a superb player with an incredible mentality. (nelsongreerpainting.com) Being the player to have taken the least amount of time to reach 50 goals with this club tells you everything you need to know about him and his way of working.”
He added, “He’s an important leader for the team and a big part of what we’re building. He wants to be up there with the best players in the world and leave his mark. He can achieve that here.”
Technical director Edu said: “It’s clear Auba loves the club and everything we stand for on and off the pitch. He’s obviously a very important part of the team so we’re all delighted he has committed his future to us. It’s a big boost for everyone – fans, team-mates and staff.”
