Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for Saturday’s Premier League game against Southampton for “disciplinary violations.”
The 31-year-old was not present for Friday’s training session and although the club declined to specify the exact nature of the incident, a club source told ESPN it was “not COVID related. “
Speaking before the match, Arteta said: “[Aubameyang is missing] unfortunately due to violation of discipline.
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“I think we’ve been very consistent that we have some non-negotiables in the team that we’ve positioned ourselves as a club, and he didn’t join today.”
Asked if it was a long-term penalty, Arteta added: “It starts today. It’s certainly not an easy situation, or a situation where we want to be captained. his club.”
Aubameyang is was dropped from the match day lineup to win the north London derby in March Tottenham after arriving late for a team meeting on game day.
This latest issue will raise further questions about Arteta’s relationship with Aubameyang after the club’s captain was restricted to appearing for five minutes as a substitute in the Premier League. 2-1 loss on Monday in Everton.
When asked about Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville’s assertion that things are threatening to be “slightly sour” between Arteta and Aubameyang, Gunners boss said on Friday: “I have a very good relationship with my players. Everyone has to understand that I’m always doing what’s best for this club and for this team. And often if that can be beneficial for anyone. I will always do it.Decisions are not personal, decisions are just for the best performance and results of the team.That’s it.
“Obviously, when a player doesn’t score, it affects his confidence, it affects his mood and perhaps belief, but you have to rebel against this situation, don’t accept it. it and feel sorry for myself.”
Pushed about whether Arsenal would consider allowing Aubameyang to leave, Arteta added: “Really, we’ve never discussed something like this, and when players get in trouble – or the team is in trouble – something we have to support.”
