Many top players Barcelona has signed recently have been released with surprising ease. Despite this, Barcelona began the season strongly, topping the league after winning their first four matches with impressive performances.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s stint at Barcelona, though brief, was highly impactful. The Gabonese striker joined in January 2022 and quickly endeared himself to fans, scoring 13 goals in 23 matches across all competitions. His speed and energy were crucial in revitalizing Barcelona’s attack, helping them secure second place in the Spanish league.
However, financial difficulties led to his departure after just eight months, with Aubameyang moving to Chelsea. In a recent interview, Aubameyang shared the significant effect Barcelona had on his life and the personal challenges he faced before joining the club.
“Before joining Barcelona, I was struggling with depression due to my father’s health and had turned to drinking,” Aubameyang revealed. “Barcelona gave me a chance, and I will always be grateful for that.”
The Gabonese forward continued, “I had never enjoyed football and training as much as I did there. I even went to training on my days off, which speaks volumes. It was an incredible experience. I wish I could have stayed a few more years.”
He added, “I hoped that Laporta would have given me a better opportunity to stay, but ultimately, he told me that the club’s financial issues forced my departure. It still pains me.”
Aubameyang now plays for Al-Qadisiyah in Saudi Arabia, having joined the club this summer in a deal worth 9 million euros.
