Aubameyang Returns to Marseille: A Second Chapter Begins for the Former Arsenal and Chelsea Star

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang rejoins Marseille after Saudi departure, bringing firepower and leadership to De Zerbi’s Champions League-bound squad

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is back in Ligue 1—and back at a club where he clearly feels at home. After a season-long spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Qadsiah, the former Arsenal, Chelsea, and Borussia Dortmund striker has returned to France to rejoin Marseille, marking the start of an intriguing second chapter in his career at the Stade Vélodrome.

At 36, many had expected the Gabonese striker to ride out his career in the Gulf, especially after notching an impressive 21 goals in 36 appearances last season. But in a move that has surprised some and excited many, Aubameyang has chosen legacy and passion over money, as he reunites with a Marseille squad preparing for a return to the Champions League under Roberto De Zerbi.

A Reunion Years in the Making: Aubameyang Back at OM

MARSEILLE

According to reports from La Provence, Aubameyang arrived in Marseille earlier this week after terminating his contract with Al-Qadsiah by mutual consent. The club wasted no time welcoming him back, holding immediate discussions with the striker about a two-year deal that is expected to be confirmed officially before the weekend.

While this will be Aubameyang’s second stint at Marseille, the emotional significance is profound. During his last season at OM before moving to Saudi Arabia in 2024, he found the net 30 times across all competitions—his best return since his Bundesliga peak.

And now, with Marseille building something fresh and ambitious under De Zerbi, the timing feels right. The Italian coach is constructing a dynamic, attack-minded side and values experience as much as flair. Aubameyang, a player who has won silverware across England, Germany, and Africa, brings exactly that.

De Zerbi’s Vision and Marseille Ambitions

Marseille

Marseille’s second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season ensured their long-awaited return to the Champions League group stages. With that qualification came the need to add depth, experience, and finishing instinct to a youthful side that dazzled domestically but occasionally lacked composure in front of goal.

De Zerbi, fresh from his time at Brighton where he earned praise for his bold, possession-based style, is determined to fuse technical talent with hardened pros who’ve been there and done it. Aubameyang fits the mould perfectly: a seasoned goalscorer, natural leader, and still remarkably sharp over short distances.

He will be lining up alongside the likes of Mason Greenwood—another headline name at Marseille—as well as emerging attacking talents like Iliman Ndiaye and Faris Moumbagna. Aubameyang’s presence will provide not just goals, but a reference point for younger players, both in terms of professionalism and the mindset required at the top level.

From Saudi Arabia to the Vélodrome: Why Aubameyang Chose OM Again

Despite strong offers from other Gulf clubs and even a Qatari side reportedly willing to better his Al-Qadsiah salary, Aubameyang made it clear where his heart lies.

Sources close to the player suggest his decision was driven by the desire to end his European career at a club where he felt a genuine connection—with the fans, the city, and the football. And while his new contract reportedly involves a significant pay cut compared to his Saudi deal, Aubameyang appears unfazed.

For him, it’s about football again. About goals, nights under the lights at the Vélodrome, and one last shot at continental glory with a club that believes in him.

A New Role, A Familiar Hunger

This won’t be the same Aubameyang that left Europe a year ago—and that’s not a bad thing. While his explosive pace may not be what it once was, his movement, awareness, and instinct remain elite. Expect to see him used more centrally, perhaps as a classic No.9, with creative players feeding him in the box.

There is also talk within the club that Aubameyang could be handed a leadership role in the dressing room. His journey—from Saint-Étienne to Dortmund, from Arsenal highs to Chelsea lows, and then Saudi Arabia—has given him perspective. He knows what winning looks like, and perhaps more importantly, he knows what it means to struggle and bounce back.

De Zerbi will no doubt lean on that experience, especially in high-pressure Champions League matches where composure can mean the difference between advancing and crashing out.

What’s Next for Marseille and Aubameyang?

Marseille are currently deep into their pre-season, with several friendly fixtures lined up ahead of their Ligue 1 opener in early August. Aubameyang is expected to feature in at least one of those matches as he works on regaining match sharpness and syncing with his new (and returning) teammates.

The club is also finalising a few more summer signings, but Aubameyang’s arrival may prove to be the defining moment of the window—not just because of his goal output, but because of the message it sends: that Marseille are serious about contending, both in France and in Europe.

And for Aubameyang? This is a chance to write a fitting final act to a career that has had it all—goals, trophies, drama, and reinvention. Don’t bet against him adding a few more spectacular strikes to the Marseille highlight reel.