Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a name still whispered with fondness by Arsenal faithful, has revealed the teammate he considers the most gifted he’s ever shared a pitch with: Ousmane Dembele. Despite playing alongside luminaries like Mesut Özil and Bukayo Saka, it’s Dembele who stands above the rest in Aubameyang’s estimation.
Aubameyang’s time at Arsenal was a whirlwind of goals and controversy. He arrived as a prolific striker, quickly amassing 92 goals in just 163 appearances, including a memorable brace in the 2020 FA Cup final. He became a focal point, a talisman for the Gunners’ attack.
However, his tenure wasn’t without turbulence. Stripped of the captaincy due to disciplinary issues, a shadow fell over his performances. The relationship with manager Mikel Arteta fractured, ultimately leading to a contract termination and a move to Barcelona.
It was in Catalonia that Aubameyang found himself reunited with Dembele, a player he’d first known as a promising teenager at Borussia Dortmund. The connection was instantly rekindled, and Aubameyang flourished, scoring 13 goals in 24 games for the Catalan giants.
During a recent interactive Q&A, Aubameyang didn’t hesitate when asked to name his greatest teammate. “I played with a lot of good players, but I would say Dembele,” he stated unequivocally. He further highlighted Dembele’s exceptional talent, placing him alongside Marco Reus and Mesut Özil as one of the best playmakers he’s ever known.
Aubameyang’s admiration extends beyond shared experiences. He boldly predicted a second Ballon d’Or for Dembele, praising his friend’s potential to reach the pinnacle of the sport. “I don’t know who will lift the next award, but I would say Dembele because it’s my friend.”
The conversation took a candid turn when the subject of his Arsenal departure arose. Aubameyang, now playing for Marseille, offered a blunt assessment: “I wanted to stay, but s* happens.” Despite the acrimonious exit, he reaffirmed his affection for the club, declaring himself a “red man” when asked about his allegiance in London.
Even as his playing career winds down, Aubameyang is already considering his future within the game. He’s begun taking lessons in management, hinting at a potential transition into coaching, though he remains focused on continuing to contribute on the pitch. Currently, he’s making a significant impact for Marseille, with eight goals in 22 Ligue 1 appearances.
Aubameyang’s journey has been marked by both brilliance and upheaval. His unwavering belief in Dembele’s talent, and his honest reflections on his past, offer a glimpse into the mind of a player who has experienced the highs and lows of professional football.
