Emmanuel Adebayor has criticised Arsenal's handling of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, saying the club 'never learn' and 'never know how to forgive'. The former striker's comments come after Aubameyang was stripped of the captaincy and has not played for the Gunners since last month.
Adebayor, who left Arsenal for Manchester City in 2009, drew parallels with his own departure. He scored 46 goals in his final two seasons at the club but felt forced out. 'I found out that they need the money and someone had to leave – that was me,' he said at the time, also criticising fans for booing him despite his efforts.
The acrimony peaked in September 2009 when Adebayor scored against Arsenal for City and sprinted the length of the pitch to slide on his knees in front of the visiting fans. Objects were thrown, and he was later charged with violent conduct for stamping on Robin van Persie's face. Adebayor apologised but said the celebration was a reaction to insults from the crowd.
Arsene Wenger, then Arsenal manager, questioned Adebayor's 'attitude' and 'behaviour', while former teammate Emmanuel Eboue expressed disappointment. Adebayor later joined Tottenham in 2011, further straining relations with Arsenal supporters.
