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Mikel Arteta makes Champions League vow to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang over new Arsenal deal
Arsenal have tied up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to a three-year contract extension.
Arsenal: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang announces new contract
Mikel Arteta has expressed his delight at the news that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has committed his future to Arsenal. While Arsenal have enjoyed a strong transfer window with the recruits of Gabriel Magalhaes and Willian along with impending incoming money from the sales of Lucas Torreira and Emiliano Martinez, the main piece of business they wanted done was Aubameyang's new deal.
The Gabon international was entering the final year of his contract and, even though there were strong suggestions he would eventually sign, some Arsenal fans were growing increasingly concerned it may not happen.
He proved his goalscoring prowess once again in their Premier League opening day 3-0 win over Fulham to add to his impressive tally with the Gunners.
And now Arsenal have tied down Aubameyang's future for the next three years as they look to climb up the league under Arteta.
The Gunners boss has enjoyed an impressive start to life in the dugout, leading Arsenal to FA Cup glory with wins over Manchester City and Chelsea in the process.
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There have been signs that Arsenal are heading in the right direction under Arteta.
But the Gunners boss admits Aubameyang was always going to be a key part of his plans for the future and is confident Arsenal can deliver what the striker wants as they target a return to the Champions League.
“It was important for Pierre-Emerick to stay with us," he said.
“He’s a superb player with an incredible mentality.
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“Being the player to have taken the least amount of time to reach 50 goals with this club tells you everything you need to know about him and his way of working.
“He’s an important leader for the team and a big part of what we’re building.
“He wants to be up there with the best players in the world and leave his mark. He can achieve that here.”
Technical director Edu added: “It’s clear Auba loves the club and everything we stand for on and off the pitch.
“He’s obviously a very important part of the team so we’re all delighted he has committed his future to us.
“It’s a big boost for everyone – fans, team-mates and staff.”
Arsenal are back in action on Saturday when they face West Ham as they hope to make it back-to-back wins to start the new season.
They'll then only have a couple days rest before taking on Leicester in the EFL Cup third round tie on September 22.