Chelsea boss will make contact with former player after week of drama and speculation

Arsenal moved into the top four on Wednesday evening after a 2-0 victory over London rivals West Ham United at the Emirates. 

Mikel Arteta’s side earned victory courtesy of goals from youngsters Gabriel Martinelli and Emile Smith-Rowe, and the result was exactly what the Spaniard needed after a week of controversy.

On Tuesday, an official club announcement revealed that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had been stripped of the captaincy for a ‘lack of commitment’, having previously been left out of the Gunners’ squad against Southampton due to a ‘disciplinary breach’.

The Gabonese striker, who had taken on the role after Granit Xhaka was relieved of his duties two years ago, was also left out of the squad for Tuesday’s win over the Hammers, although he is expected to return to action at the weekend.

Now, one of Arteta’s rivals has had his say on the matter, and revealed that he will make contact with the Gabon international.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who managed Aubameyang at Borussia Dortmund, has admitted that he feels ‘sorry’ for his former player.

Aubameyang has scored four goals in 14 Premier League appearances this season

When quizzed about whether or not he will reach out to the 32-year-old, Tuchel explained “I will at some point. I feel sorry that he is in trouble.”

“I believe in his positive character but I am not involved in this situation or his club,” he added.

“It is just about my picture and relationship.”

Tuchel’s comments will likely have not gone down well with Arteta, who could perceive the German’s remarks as undermining.

The Blues boss managed Aubameyang for two seasons in Germany, and the striker was pivotal in helping him win his first major honour as a manager.

Aubameyang’s future has now been thrown into serious doubt and, with speculation growing and the January transfer window fast approaching, it is being rumoured that he could have played his final game for the club.