Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang opens up on Marseille exit and short second spell

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says his departure from Olympique de Marseille was driven primarily by the club’s management, despite the Gabon international being open to staying.

The 37-year-old forward left Marseille this summer to join Deportivo La Coruna in a deal worth €1.5m. Speaking to L’Equipe, Aubameyang explained that remaining in southern France had not been ruled out from his perspective, but that the final decision was made by the club’s directors.

Aubameyang still had one year left on his contract with Olympique de Marseille and admitted he would have been happy to continue his career at the club. However, he chose not to challenge the position taken by the Marseille hierarchy or turn the situation into a dispute.

The former Chelsea and FC Barcelona striker said he accepted the decision without attempting to force the club into changing its position.

His comments also offered an insight into the difficulties he experienced during his final campaign at Marseille. Aubameyang acknowledged that the season had been particularly demanding, even though he remained strongly attached to the club and its supporters.

The forward first played for Marseille during the 2023/24 season before moving to Saudi Arabia. He then returned to Olympique de Marseille last summer for a second spell, but that return proved to be brief.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Aubameyang remained an important contributor on the pitch. He scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists in 41 appearances in all competitions for Marseille during the season just completed.

His move to Deportivo La Coruna now gives him the opportunity to continue his career in Spain. Aubameyang is under contract with the club until 30 June 2028, while his estimated market value is €2.5m.

Although his second spell at Marseille ended sooner than he might have expected, he leaves with a strong reputation among the club’s supporters. His performances during his first period at the club, as well as his overall contribution in Marseille colours, ensured that he made a positive impression.

Olympique de Marseille will soon begin the new French league campaign with a first-round match against Strasbourg. Pre-match odds published by betting company 1xbet list Marseille as 1.64 favourites to win, with a draw priced at 4.20 and a Strasbourg victory at 4.30.