Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 'could fly back from Africa Cup of Nations' BEFORE the end of Gabon's campaign after suffering from 'heart lesions'

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang may return from the Africa Cup of Nations early due to his ongoing health issues.

The Arsenal striker has not featured for Gabon in Cameroon, after catching Covid in the build up to the tournament, with head coach Patrice Neveu having to make do without him. 

He missed Gabon’s clashes with Comoros and Ghana and reports on Friday from the nation’s medical staff suggested he was suffering with ‘heart lesions’ as a result of his Covid diagnosis.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s Africa Cup of Nations future is set to be decided this week

Arsenal were keen to stress over the weekend that the player is feeling fine, but talks are ongoing as to what the best outcome for the player is.

According to The Athletic, that could involve Aubameyang returning to the UK this week, after his condition is reviewed. 

The publication sates that Monday will be key to deciding plans for the former Arsenal captain, with discussions and tests set to ascertain whether he will be able to play either on Tuesday or beyond, should Gabon progress. 

Gabon head coach Patrice Neveu could be without the striker for the rest of the tournament

Aubameyang has been in contact with Arsenal’s club doctors, who are not alarmed by the situation. 

The 32-year-old was stripped of the Arsenal captaincy before heading to Cameroon, after a series of disciplinary issues. 

He was also photographed on a night out in Dubai with former Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina ahead of the tournament. Both players went on to catch Covid. 

Mikel Arteta stripped Aubameyang of the Arsenal captaincy before he headed to AFCON