Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Brings Back Trademark Celebration After Bagging First Barcelona Hat-Trick
The former Arsenal forward scored three of Barcelona's goals in a 4-1 away win over Valencia on Sunday
Tom Fenton
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang opened his Barcelona goalscoring account in style, by netting a slightly fortuitous hat-trick in the Catalan side's 4-1 win over Valencia.
The former Arsenal skipper had yet to register a goal for the club prior to Sunday's La Liga tie, after joining Barca last month. However, his luck finally changed this weekend, with the 32-year-old handed the away side a lead after just 23 minutes.
To the delight of many, Aubameyang then wheeled away to complete his famous summersault celebration - one that Gunners fans know all too well.
He had to wait just 15 minutes to add a second, as he struck shortly before the break to hand Barca an almost unassailable 3-0 lead. A low cross was tucked away from close range by Aubameyang, who once again celebrated in style.
The away side's second goal was scored by Dutchman Frenkie De Jong, who was instrumental in the victory, pulling the strings from deep in midfield.
In the second period, Aubameyang was also awarded Barcelona's fourth goal - which was initially credited to Pedri - and thus completed his hat-trick in slightly fortunate circumstances.
Pedri's rasping shot from range took a wicked deflection off the former Arsenal man's back, one which sent the ball sailing past the Valencia stopper and into the back of the net.
It was a great day all-round for the Gabon international, who took home the Man of the Match award for his impressive display at the Mestalla.
Barcelona's commanding win propels Xavi's new-look side up to fourth in La Liga, level on points with Champions League-chasing Atletico Madrid.
However, the Catalan giants still remain a staggering 15 points behind Atletico's city rivals Real, who currently top the table.