LaLiga: How Xavi altered his views regarding Aubameyang in order to facilitate his transfer to Barcelona

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s move from Arsenal to Barcelona wouldn’t have seen the light of day if manager Xavi Hernandez did not change his opinion about the player.

Xavi previously told the Catalans not to sign the ex-Arsenal captain, claiming he is not the right profile for the club.

Discussing possible Barca signings in May 2020, Xavi said: “[Sadio] Mane and Aubameyang can kill you in open space.

“But Barcelona needs players who know how to move in small spaces.”

However, Aubameyang is on the verge of joining Barca this winter, after Arsenal ripped up his contract.

The Gabon striker netted 92 times in 163 appearances for the Gunners.

But he has not been featured for the Premier League side, since he was stripped of the captaincy in December.