Ian Wright has urged Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to sign a new deal, with the striker’s future at the Emirates Stadium in doubt.
Aubameyang is the Gunners’ top scorer this season with 17 Premier League goals, but could be at risk of leaving this summer with just 18 months left on his current deal.
The 30-year-old missed a gilt-edged opportunity to score an extra-time winner against Olympiacos on Thursday night, as his side crashed out of the Europa League.
After the full-time whistle, the Gabon international was on the verge of tears, prompting club legend Ian Wright to send his well-wishes.
Commenting on Aubameyang’s Instagram post, former England striker Wright said: ‘We love you!!! This club loves you. Our fans love you. Forget about last night.
‘If you weren’t here with all due respect to the rest of our team we’d be in deep trouble.
‘For you to score the amount of goals you are scoring whilst doing all that defending is just incredible!!!
‘(Please stay and sign the ting).’
After the game Aubameyang blamed tiredness and muscle cramps for the miss, but was overwhelmed by the positive response from fans.
He wrote on Instagram: ‘I woke up this morning praying as usual and I thank God for what he gave me. An incredible family and you fans are part of it.
‘Thanks for all the messages and the love I received yesterday. Football is great even if it gives you strange emotions.
‘But I take it as a lesson and keep my head up, the season’s not over yet, we’ll fight as a team to the end.’
Barcelona have already stated their interest in bringing the striker to the Nou Camp in the summer.
The Spanish giants failed in their attempt to recruit Aubameyang in the January transfer window, and will likely be back with an improved offer at the end of this campaign.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta admitted the club will do everything in their power to convince their ‘most important player’ to stay in north London.
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