By his usual high standards, the Arsenal captain endured a below-par 2020/2021 season, where he only scored 10 Premier League goals in 29 appearances as Arsenal missed out on European qualification.
Aubameyang has found some much-needed form in the current campaign, scoring seven goals in his nine appearances across all competitions, including four in eight Premier League games.
The Gabon international's return to form has coincided with an upturn in results for Arsenal, who started the season on a stuttering note but are now unbeaten in their last seven games.
"I have never seen Auba transmit what he is doing now," Arteta told the club's official website. "Apart from the goals, the celebration when they put the ball in the net, do you see the way he runs?
"The purpose he has to press the ball, and [...] how is leading the game. I prefer this Auba. For me it is a click. It is a combination that realising that his role has to go well beyond [what is was].
"He had to take a step forward. I would say the same with Laca [Alexandre Lacazette]. They lead by example and not only there but as well at the training ground.
Arsenal will face Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium in the round of 16 stage of the Carabao Cup later on Tuesday.
