Former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has expressed his delight at joining Barcelona following a transfer deadline move.
The 32-year-old has agreed on a deal with Barcelona until 2025, with an option for the two parties to part ways in 2023.
Aubameyang’s deal runs until 30 June 2025 and includes an option to agree on a departure in June 2023, plus a buyout clause of 100 million euros (£83.4m).
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“I’m happy to be here. I’m looking forward to being on the pitch,” Aubameyang said during an interview with Barcelona’s official media channels.
“It was a long day, but in the end, I’m here. I’m looking forward to it.
“I think Barcelona are one of the biggest clubs in the world and it’s an honour for me to be here.
“I have experience. I’ve played in France, Germany and England. I’m here to help and give my all for the team.”
Arsenal signed Aubameyang for £56m in January 2018, but departed on a free transfer after he was stripped of the captaincy following a disciplinary issue.
He had previously been dropped in March and missed Arsenal win over north London rivals Tottenham because of a “breach of pre-match protocol”.
His move to Barcelona will save the Gunners about £15m in wages but leaves manager Mikel Arteta with Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah as his only central strikers for the remainder of the season.
In a message posted on social media on Tuesday, Aubameyang thanked Arsenal’s fans for their support and said it “hurt” to leave in such circumstances.
“We went through ups and downs together and your support meant everything to me,” he said.
“I have always been 100% focused and committed to doing everything I can for this club which is why leaving without a real goodbye hurts – but that is football.
“I’m sad I did not get the chance to help my teammates in the last few weeks, but I have nothing but respect for this club and truly wish all my guys and the fans all the best and many successful years in the future!”
Aubameyang could make his Barcelona’s debut at home to Atletico Madrid on Sunday afternoon.