Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang slams 'violent cowards' who broke his jaw in terrifying home invasion

Barcelona forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has released a public statement condemning the "violent cowards" who broke his jaw and threatened his family during a terrifying home invasion.

Aubameyang was physically assaulted during a violent armed robbery at his home in Castelldefels, Barcelona on Monday, according to reports in Spain.

El Pais claim at least four men entered the property at 1am and threatened both Aubameyang and his wife with firearms and iron bars.

The robbers managed to open a safe and take valuables, including several jewels, before fleeing the scene.

ESPN claim Aubameyang, 33, suffered a broken jaw during the robbery.

The former Arsenal striker has now confirmed he sustained an injury during the incident, writing on Twitter: "Hey guys, thanks a lot for all the messages.

"On Sunday night, some violent cowards broke into our home and threatened my family and my children, just to steal some stuff.

"They injured my jaw but I will recover in no time, and thank God no one else was physically harmed.

"The feeling that we are no longer safe in our own home is hard to understand and describe, but as a family, we will overcome this and stand stronger than ever.

"Thanks for all the support, it really means a lot to us. Auba."

ESPN claim the injury could keep Aubameyang out for three weeks and complicates his proposed move to Chelsea.

Barcelona and Chelsea have held talks over a possible deal for the striker, who only joined the Catalan club on a free transfer from Arsenal in January.

It is claimed that Chelsea have made it clear they do not want to pay over €20m (£17.2m) for the forward, while Barcelona are holding out for more than €25m (£21.5m).

Aubameyang has scored 13 goals in 24 games for Barcelona but has fallen down the pecking order at the Nou Camp, following Robert Lewandowski's move from Bayern Munich.