The hour of renewal may have come for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Having become undesirable at Arsenal, the Franco-Gabonese chose FC Barcelona during the winter transfer window to breathe new life into his career. After three first goalless games, the former Stéphanois found the fault this Sunday on the lawn of Valence (4-1) and scored his first two goals under the Blaugrana tunic.
First on a powerful shot under the bar, following a superb opening by Jordi Alba, then thanks to the strong center of Gavi where he only has to deposit the ball in the back of the net for the 3-0 (38th ). “He has scored goals his whole career (…) He is very good in space, he has depth, he is mature, hard-working and positive… I am very happy with him. These two goals will do him a lot of good, ”said his coach, Xavi.
At his side on the front of the attack, the Frenchman Ousmane Dembélé also delivered an amply satisfactory performance. At the heart of an incredible soap opera around his contractual situation this winter, the former Rennais, who ultimately did not extend with Barça, is not living the best moments of his career.
Good physical condition
Last Thursday, he received whistles from his own supporters during the Europa League match against Naples (1-1) despite a convincing entry. This Sunday, he again responded well on the pitch. He was also making his big comeback as a starter in the Catalan 11, he who had not started a single meeting since January 8 against Granada (1-1).
The former Dortmund player is the decisive passer on the goal of Frenkie De Jong, via a well-felt discount (31st). He was then involved in Aubameyang’s second goal, creating a gap on the right for Gavi.
Coming off in the 73rd minute, he finished with 91% of passes completed and showed good physical condition. He should indeed be part of Xavi’s plans for the second half of the season. 4th in La Liga after this success, Barça will need all their strength to end a very delicate season well.