Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Reveals Surprise Name As Toughest Opponent

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has had quite the storied career, playing at an elite level for much of it, and yet his toughest opponent is definitely a surprise choice.

Aubameyang made a dream move to La Liga at the beginning of this month, having been released by Arsenal on transfer deadline day, although his previous dream had been for Real Madrid rather than Barcelona.

The forward spent four years in the Premier League, having previously spent five season in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund.

He has come up against some of the best players in the world, also playing in the Champions League with Dortmund, but most won't be expecting who he's named as his toughest opponent.

Asked the question by Mundo Deportivo, in some quick fire questions, the 32-year-old said, "Toughest opponent I've faced? Tyrone Mings."

Aubameyang battles with his toughest opponent. Image: PA Images

The answer will come as a surprise to many, especially considering the Gabon striker has faced the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Vincent Kompany and Mats Hummels.

Mings has been solid for both Aston Villa and Bournemouth, earning the 28-year-old 16 caps for England, including playing during the run to the final of the Euros last summer.

However he has often come in for criticism for his defending and the fact that he does have a big mistake hiding in his locker occasionally.

Most people would expect Aubameyang to pick Van Dijk. Image: PA Images

Aubameyang hit the ground running for Xavi's team at the weekend as he bagged a slightly unconventional hat-trick in the 4-1 win over Valencia.

Whilst the former Arsenal man's first two goals were perfectly normal goals, his third one was rather fortunate, as Pedri's strike hit his teammate on the back and fired past the goalkeeper.

It was a much needed win for the Catalan giants as it put them in a good position to finish in the top four and secure a Champions League place.

They now lead Atletico Madrid on goal difference but have a game in hand over Diego Simeone's side, after their loss to Levante last week.

Now he's at the Nou Camp, Aubameyang has been reunited with Ousmane Dembele, who he played with at Dortmund. The France forward is expected to leave in the summer, when his contract expires.

The former St Etienne forward revealed he wants the former Rennes man to stay, "Ousmane is one of the best on the ball and as a striker he is incredible. To tell the truth, I am very happy that he is here and when I arrived I told him, 'You have to stay, man.'|

Topics: Premier League, Tyrone Mings, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Aston Villa, Arsenal, Barcelona, La Liga

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a journalist for SPORTbible with over eight years of experience. Passionate about all sports, he mainly covers football and F1 - Daniel Ricciardo once spent an entire interview referring to him as 'Ryan Gosling,' still his proudest moment.

@Sidler28