Barcelona vs Valencia: Three players who impressed for the Blaugrana at the Mestalla

1. Aubameyang:

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang arrived at Barca in the winter transfer window after some difficult few months at Arsenal. Aubameyang, who was cast out of the Arsenal side by Arteta, was determined to regain his form and turn a new page in his illustrious career. On Sunday, the 32-year-old striker showed what he can offer to his side when given the confidence from the manager and teammates. The Gabonese striker opened his account for the Catalans with a clinical finish in the 23rd min before adding another before the half-time break. His movement proved a constant threat to the Valencia defenders, as they were drawn out of their positions. Aubameyang notched his hattrick when Pedri’s shot, which deflected off the Gabonese striker’s back, was officially awarded to him after the match. Incidentally, he had also scored a hattrick in his last visit to the Mestalla in 2019. Moreover, he became the first player in the 21st century to score a hattrick in Ligue 1, Bundesliga, Premier League, and La Liga.

"“Aubameyang’s scored goals throughout his career,” Xavi said. “He’s good in space. He’s mature, intelligent, humble and positive. I am delighted with him. Those goals today will give him a lot of confidence.” -Xavi (Source: ESPN)"

Aubameyang’s goals can prove vital for Barcelona in the remainder of the season, both in La Liga and the Europa League.

Barca play Napoli on Thursday in the second leg of their Europa League encounter in Naples. The first-leg finished 1-1.