Aubameyang ‘must be willing change’

John Barnes believes Mikel Arteta should continue snubbing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang unless the Arsenal striker changes his attitude.

There has been speculation over Aubameyang’s future since boss Arteta stripped him of the captaincy.

The Gabon international, 32, has not played for the Gunners since early December.


And former Liverpool and England star Barnes reckons Arteta has got it right.

Speaking to BonusCodeBets, Barnes said: “Aubameyang coming back into the team depends on whether he wants to do well and has the right attitude. If he doesn’t, there is no point bringing him back into the fold. Even if Arsenal aren’t doing too well, it could make the whole situation worse.

“When Arteta left out Aubameyang earlier on this season, Arsenal improved without him, you can’t just bring him back into the team because suddenly results have gone against you.

“The manager has decided, unless Aubameyang is willing to change which looks like a relationship and attitude problem, there is only going to be one winner, which is Arteta. For Aubameyang to get back involved we’re going to have to see a marked improvement.

“Mikel Arteta came to Arsenal and changed the culture of the club with non-negotiables and standards to be set. Since he’s done this, Arsenal have reaped the benefits and the future looks bright for them.

“Obviously, January hasn’t gone particularly well for Arsenal, they’ve had a couple of bad results. But they’re on the right path with Arteta at the helm.”