Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang ‘proud and happy’ to join Barcelona

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has targeted taking Barcelona back into the Champions League after the striker completed his free transfer from Arsenal.

The Gabon forward declared himself “proud and happy” to have joined the Catalan giants, with the move confirmed a day after Arsenal announced they had released Aubameyang from his contract.

The 32-year-old former Gunners captain was released by the club on Monday, having not made an appearance since being disciplined in December.

Aubameyang arrived in Barcelona on Monday morning, sparking rumours of a loan move to the LaLiga side although confusion reigned as no agreement had been reached as deadline day drew on.

Talks progressed during Monday and Arsenal announced the following day that they had agreed to allow Aubameyang to leave the club by mutual consent.

He could yet make his Barcelona debut against Atletico Madrid this weekend as the pair battle it out for the Champions League spots in LaLiga with Barcelona already dropping down into the Europa League this season.

Speaking on an interview on Barcelona’s official Twitter feed, Aubameyang made it clear what his aims were having signed a deal until 2025.

My main goal is to help the team and give everything I can to bring the team back into the Champions League and stuff like that. - Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

“I’m very proud, especially because my family is Spanish from my mother’s side,” he said.

“I’m really proud and happy to be here. My main goal is to help the team and give everything I can to bring the team back into the Champions League and stuff like that.

“I’m just happy to be here and I will try to give everything.

“It’s amazing to have him (Xavi) as a coach, he’s been a fantastic player as everyone knows and I’m