Arsenal: 3 players that need to step up after Aubameyang’s departure

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 07: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal waits to take a penalty during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on November 7, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 07: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal waits to take a penalty during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on November 7, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /
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3 Arsenal players that need to step up this season following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s transfer to Barcelona. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images) /

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang always wanted to play in Spain. On deadline day his wish came true, with the once star striker a Arsenal moving to Barcelona.

His departure leaves a sour taste but the way he carried Arsenal during his first couple of seasons here was nothing short of world class. He offered pace on the counter, movement in behind and in the box and excellent finishing ability.

While his form in the past year and a half declined far more rapidly than even the most pessimistic fan could imagine, it will be difficult to replace him and his goals.

With no direct replacement finding their way to London before the deadline day timer ticked down, current players will have to pitch in with goals and assists to cover for the loss of an excellent striker.

3 Arsenal players that need to step up this season following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s transfer to Barcelona

Here are three players that need to step up after Aubameyang’s departure.

3. Emile Smith Rowe

One of Arsenal’s best performers this season, Emile Smith Rowe has shown his ability in every game. Certain facets of his play have always been present: his ability to carry the ball at pace, his intelligent movement and his deceptively good feet and turn of pace. This season, however, he has gone up a level.

His aforementioned strengths are still very much present. To his versatile package he has added an invaluable ability: the ability to score goals. His third man runs beyond the striker are well timed as he plays in the channels while also driving directly into the box a la Aaron Ramsey. Whether he’s starting or coming off the bench, he always looks like he’s going to make something happen.

Smith Rowe’s form was excellent as he came off the bench to great effect, scoring regularly. A persistent injury issue has forced him to be sidelined and while he has played since then, he seemed less energetic than usual. The international break and trip to Dubai has hopefully allowed him to build up his fitness and shake off any niggles.

He will certainly be crucial in the run in for the rest of the season. If Alexandre Lacazette is not scoring – which he probably won’t – the goals need to come from somewhere else and many of them will need to come from Arsenal’s No. 10.

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