Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has hailed the inspiration of Real Madrid and Brazil legend Ronaldo as he looks to fire Arsenal to Europa League glory.
The Arsenal captain and club's top goalscorer since his arrival in January 2018, Aubameyang has endeared himself to Gunners supporters with his jovial spirit, prolific scoring rate, and now leadership qualities as he ends his second season as club captain.
Signed from Borussia Dortmund in a then club-record deal, Aubameyang has exceeded expectations for his time in north London, and after signing a new contract in the summer, is set to establish himself as a firm fan-favourite for years to come.
And this week, the 31-year-old was invited on to the Arsenal official Twitch channel where he joined host Frimpon and was asked a host of questions by Arsenal fans.
One of the most interesting answers came when he was asked where he draws inspiration from him in football. Aubameyang hailed the presence of Ronaldo, as well as offering up a surprise suggestion.
"R9. He was my hero, my legend," he said. "I think, for me, he changed the game, changed the game of football. He inspired me a lot."
And then Aubameyang offered up a non-football example.
He added: "I will tell the truth, Michael Jackson, as well. It is not about football but in the life. He was always with a shining star. I don't know, but he had something really, really special."
Aubameyang was then asked whether he can do the moonwalk, the classic Jackson dance.
The Arsenal striker, with a sly smile, replied: "Of course".
Aubameyang also said that it is a "big honour" that he is Arsenal captain after succeeding Granit Xhaka in 2019.
"As I said a few times already, it's a big honour," he said. "It's a big honour to be the captain of this great club.
"I can just be proud. I couldn't imagine this before I arrived, and now I am the captain and I am feeling just so proud. People are giving me a lot of love so I try to give that back. I am really, really happy."
Aubameyang has proven his quality on the pitch since arriving at Arsenal.
He scored 10 goals in his first 13 league games, then two seasons of 22 Premier League goals, before adding nine league goals this year, including four in his last three starts.
Aubameyang also has three goals in three Europa League games and will once again be looking to find the net in Arsenal's Last 16 tie against Olympiakos on Thursday.
