Mikel Arteta has discussed Arsenal’s lack of business during the January transfer window and has reacted to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s comments regarding his exit.
Arsenal failed to secure major additions during the winter window despite being linked with the signing of a midfielder and centre-forward, with the Gunners’ business consisting of exits as the club reduced the size of their squad.
The lack of business has caused unrest amongst the fanbase following a concerning run of form for the North Londoners, who were knocked out of both cup competitions and failed to win a single game in January.
Speaking ahead of a crucial clash with Wolves in the Premier League tomorrow, Arteta suggested that the ‘best people and the best players’ were not attainable in the January window.
“We did what we believed was the right thing to do,” he said at his pre-match press conference.
“The squad composition and contracts were catching up, be fair with players who haven’t had a lot of minutes.
“We had a clear plan of what we can do but then it has to be doable.
“Edu and his team have done a great job. We are very clear we only want the best people and the best players at this club. When we are in a rush and the reasons to get a player on board are not the right ones we didn’t do it.”
The headline news from Arsenal’s transfer window was the departure of Aubameyang to Barcelona, the forward cancelling his contract by mutual consent after being stripped of the club captaincy in December.
The Gabon international spoke out on the manner of his exit following his switch to the Camp Nou, blaming Arteta for the circumstances surrounding his departure.
“It was just a problem with him and then he made the decision,” Aubameyang said. “I can’t tell you much. I wasn’t happy and that’s it. I was very calm and that’s it.”
However, Arteta has now issued a response to the forward’s claims and believes a parting of ways was the best ‘solution’ for all involved.
“That’s his opinion, that’s what he said and you have to respect that.
“I’m extremely grateful for what Auba has done and his contribution. The way I see myself in that relationship is the solution, not the problem.
“I’ve been the solution, 100%. I can look in the eye of anybody. I do a lot of things wrong for sure. The intention all the time is the best and not for me, it’s for the club and the team.”
“It ended up the best possible way for everyone I think. This is part of football. You have to make a decision that the best thing to do was let him move on and now he plays Barcelona.”
