Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s form in recent weeks despite no goals from the club captain since late October.
Speaking to the press via Football London ahead of Thursday’s massive match against Manchester United, the Gunners boss expressed his backing for the club captain despite not finding the back of the net since Arsenal’s 3-1 win against Aston Villa.
Arsenal currently sit fifth in the Premier League table heading to Old Trafford. However, a lack of goals from Aubameyang, and the squad overall, has been a key issue for the team this season. As it was last year.
Even with creative players in the squad such as Martin Odegaard and Emile Smith Rowe, Arsenal are still struggling to find the back of the net. The Gunners’ goal difference in the league stands at -2, with clubs such as Watford, Newcastle and Everton scoring more than the north London side.
And Aubameyang’s form has been central to this. But when asked about the Gabon international’s lack of goals, Arteta was quick to defend his club captain, with the manager claiming that the striker’s role is to do more than just score.
Arteta said: “Well, the form of Aubameyang is always going to be related to how he scores. He’s doing a lot of other things but, obviously, we need that contribution. That has to be his aim.”
Aubameyang’s form will be key if Arsenal want Europe
Arsenal’s lack of goals has been a problem ever since Arteta arrived at the club almost two years ago. And whilst the Gunners currently sit fifth in the standings, it will only be a matter of time before this issue becomes a disaster for the club.
Indeed, Aubameyang’s form has played a role in this, with the striker scoring just four goals in the Premier League this season. And if the Gunners are to seriously contend for a European spot, they will need to learn how to get the best out of the 32-year-old attacker once again.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
