Can Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Inspire Saint-Etienne to the Ligue 1 Title?

As the 2012-2013 Ligue 1 season approaches, many feel it is a foregone conclusion that Paris Saint-Germain will outdistance everyone else to the title. Recent history shows us to expect the unexpected.

Montpellier’s surprising run this season culminated in beating out PSG for the title. Many wrote this off as an exception. After all, PSG was in the first season of their heavily financed regime.

While they clearly had the most talented squad in Ligue 1, PSG had not played together enough to develop chemistry. On the Montpellier side of the coin, they found a perfect blend of solid players performing within the framework of a team.

They were also inspired by the extraordinary performance of Olivier Giroud. His scoring exploits and all-around play were crucial to holding off the pre-ordained champions from Paris. Sky Sports reports that Giroud has come to an agreement to play for Arsenal next year.

While PSG will spend the summer infusing more money and talent into their roster, a look around the league uncovers an opportunity for lightning to strike again. AS Saint-Etienne enjoyed a strong season last year that ended just short of qualifying for Europe.

ASSE relied on a young team with veteran leadership in goal and at midfield. The growth of the young squad puts it in prime position to compete near the top of the table again. There was one player whose star rose the fastest for Les Verts. During last season, the world of soccer was introduced to a bright attacking talent in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Like Giroud for Montpellier, Aubameyang could be the inspiration ASSE needs to press PSG for the title. The Gabonese forward burst onto the scene last year with 16 goals for Les Verts. Having just turned 23, Aubameyang is heading into his prime years. His performance at the African Cup of Nations showed his potential as he led Gabon into the quarterfinals.

Aubameyang possesses a total skill package for a forward. At 6'1", he has the size along with athletic ability to be effective in the air. His speed allows him to run away from his markers. He has also shown the ability to score with both feet, making him tougher for defenders to deal with.

Even with all these key attributes, it is his technical ability that will be crucial for Saint-Etienne. Aubameyang has the ability to run at defenders. His variety of moves and quickness allow him to beat defenders one on one. This creates scoring chances for him and his teammates.

Keeping defenses on their heels is where Saint-Etienne will be at their best.

Every champion can look back on the season and pick out key moments where someone stepped up and earned valuable points in the title race. Aubameyang has the ability to take a game onto his shoulders and create a crucial goal to earn those much needed points.

When a team has a player who can take the game by the neck, it infuses confidence and belief throughout the squad. Belief and confidence make any team better.

His continued progression as a player points to a potentially explosive season. With all of his talents and abilities, Aubameyang can help Saint-Etienne end their title drought.

Whether his play will spark ASSE to a surprising title run remains to be seen. It is just such a player like Aubameyang, who can inspire his team to the next level, that could stand between the favorites and their title.