Former Barcelona fan-favourite wishes he could have stayed at club for more years

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s time at FC Barcelona may have been brief, but it was remarkably impactful.

Joining the Catalan giants in January 2022, the Gabonese striker quickly became a fan favourite, scoring 13 goals in just 23 appearances across all competitions.

His speed, clinical finishing, and energy revitalized Barcelona’s attack during a challenging period, helping the club secure a second-place finish in La Liga.

However, his stint at Barcelona ended after just eight months when financial constraints forced the club to sell him to Chelsea.

Aubameyang reveals how Barcelona saved him

Recently, Aubameyang revealed the profound impact Barcelona had on his life in an interview that shed light on the personal challenges he faced before joining the Blaugrana.

“Before signing for Barça, I was in depression due to my parents’ health and started drinking a lot. Barça gave me a chance, and I’ll always be grateful,” Aubameyang said (h/t Miquel Blazquez).

Aubameyang had a profound impact at Barcelona (Photo by CLEMENT MAHOUDEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

“I’ve never enjoyed playing football and going to training so much. I even went to train with the team on off days; that should tell you a lot. It was incredible. I wish I could have stayed for more years,” he added.

Aubameyang was indeed one of the toughest workers at Barcelona during his brief spell at the club. His influence in the dressing room was also profound.

Unfortunately, the club had to offload the Gabonese international in the summer of 2022, as he joined Chelsea. His spell at Stamford Bridge ended badly, though, with the striker scoring only thrice in 21 matches.

Aubameyang currently plies his trade with Saudi Arabian outfit Al Qadsiah, a club he joined this summer in a move worth €9 million.