Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has voiced his dissatisfaction with Mikel Arteta for letting go of a remarkable goal-scorer who departed Arsenal for free and has since surpassed even Bukayo Saka in goal-scoring prowess, tallying 42 goals in just 59 games
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has openly voiced his dismay with manager Mikel Arteta regarding the decision to offload prolific striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Departing Arsenal for a transfer fee of £0M, Aubameyang has since exhibited exceptional form, netting an impressive 42 goals in just 59 games.
This outstanding performance has left Kroenke and the Arsenal hierarchy rueful over their choice to part ways with him.
“Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has proven to be an incredible goal scorer since his departure,” Kroenke commented.
“His track record speaks volumes – 42 goals in 59 games is a remarkable achievement. We deeply regret carelessly letting him go.”
Kroenke’s disappointment was further fueled by comparing Aubameyang to current Arsenal standout Bukayo Saka.
Despite Saka’s commendable contributions to the Gunners, Aubameyang’s post-Arsenal success has overshadowed even Saka’s impact.
“While we take immense pride in Bukayo Saka, who has been exceptional for us,” Kroenke added, “it’s frustrating to see Aubameyang outshine him. It’s evident that allowing him to leave was a misstep.”
Aubameyang’s departure from Arsenal was contentious.
Despite his prior accolades, including winning the Premier League Golden Boot in 2018-2019, his form had waned, prompting speculation about his future with the Gunners.
In a bid to revitalize the squad and trim the wage bill, Arsenal opted to release Aubameyang, who subsequently joined another club on a free transfer.
Since departing, Aubameyang has experienced a resurgence, rediscovering his scoring prowess and emerging as one of Europe’s most feared forwards.
His goal-scoring exploits have played a pivotal role in his new team’s success, casting Arsenal’s decision to part with him in an unfavorable light.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has faced scrutiny for his handling of the situation.
Critics argue that Arteta failed to maximize Aubameyang’s potential and mishandled the player’s exit.
Kroenke’s recent remarks echo this sentiment, shedding light on internal frustrations within the club.
“We had faith in the process and trusted the decisions made at the time,” Kroenke remarked.
“However, in light of Aubameyang’s exceptional form now, it’s evident that we miscalculated. We should have found a way to retain him and capitalize on his talents.”
Aubameyang’s situation has raised broader questions about Arsenal’s transfer policy and their ability to manage key players effectively.
The club’s supporters have also expressed disappointment over losing a player who has gone on to achieve significant success elsewhere.
As Arsenal grapples with the challenges of the Premier League, the remorse over Aubameyang’s departure serves as a cautionary tale.
It underscores the importance of prudent decision-making and the potential ramifications of allowing top talent to depart without fully considering the long-term ramifications.
In light of this revelation, Arsenal’s management will undoubtedly face heightened scrutiny as fans and pundits alike monitor how the club moves forward from this costly misstep.
