After all, maybe Barcelona is just what the doctor ordered for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Xavi’s new striker signed for the Catalonians as a free agent after being released by Arsenal, where he completed the journey from hero (and captain) to villain in a short period of time. After his relationship with coach Mikel Arteta was broken beyond repair, the Gabonese found a new home and he is off a bright start. Aubameyang was the man of the match in the 4-1 thrashing or Valencia at Mestalla, as former Gunners main man scored a hat trick, to the joy of Xavi. Barca fly high over the Bats on the wings of Auba’s braceBut, apart from the goals, which were expected of the Gabonese, his match statistics are also something with Xavi can be happy with. Of the six shots on goal by Barca, half were from Auba -including the goal that closed the win after a previous shot by Pedri that hit his back. Consequently, of his four shots on goal, the Gabonese scored three goals. In addition, he gave 13 good passes, two of them from behind, and only seven missed. He was good in defense too, as he recovered one ball, cut off three passes and made two fouls. “He has scored goals all his career. He goes well into space. He is mature, intelligent, humble and positive. I am delighted with him. The two goals will give him confidence” said Xavi after the match. (1.75) CELTA (3.60) LEVANTE (4.90)The Spanish tactician will potentially get a different option with Aubameyang (presuming everything goes well with Gabonese). Of the 22 passes that the Gabonese received, six were from Jordi Alba (one for the goal) and four from Ter Stegen, which means Xavi is looking for Aubameyang’s speed and ability to play with spaces.„The last time I played here I scored a hat-trick in the Europa League, today a brace , so this stadium is a bit like home. We have played very well and we have added three very important points to continue and now there is a very important game like Thursday’s against Napoli. It gives a lot of confidence to win this game” said Aubemayang, who was awarded another goal later one, so he actually recorded a het trick. Good start.
