Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang responds to criticism of Xavi after signing for Barcelona

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Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang signed for Barcelona from Arsenal on transfer deadline day (Picture: Getty)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is confident he will fit in perfectly with Barcelona’s style of play, although current manager Xavi has previously raised concerns that the former Arsenal captain is not suited to the Catalan giants.

The Gabon international completed his acrimonious departure from the Gunners on a frantic deadline earlier this week which ultimately saw him leave by mutual consent following his deteriorating relationship with Mikel Arteta.

Aubameyang is now keen to put this chapter of his career behind him and focus on helping his new club move up the rankings and secure a top-four spot.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could make his Barcelona debut this weekend against Atletico Madrid (Picture: Getty)

The 32-year-old will now join Xavi at Camp Nou but the Barcelona legend previously doubted the striker would thrive at the Spanish club.

Discussing possible Barca signings in May 2020 – long before his managerial appointment – Xavi said: ‘[Sadio] Mane and Aubameyang can kill you in open space. But Barcelona need players who know how to move in small spaces.

“I think of players who would adapt to Barcelona and it’s not easy to find one.”

Responding to the comments during his unveiling on Thursday, Aubameyang revealed he had spoken to Xavi before completing his move and is in no doubt he will return to scoring form at his new club after a difficult last few months at Arsenal.

More: Arsenal FC

“I see myself ready and I think I’ve been very lucky playing in the Premier League,” he said.

“I’m ready to play Barca style. I’ve watched a lot of games, I have to adapt but that’s football. I’ve spoken to the manager a bit and he sees me as a No.9.

“If he needs me on the wing, no problem, I’m ready to play in any position.”

MORE: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says Mikel Arteta was his only problem at Arsenal

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