Gabon international Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has disclosed he made financial effort to facilitate his return to Olympique Marseille in the current transfer window.
The 36-year-old striker returns to the Vélodrome on a free transfer, just one year after his prolific campaign in Provence.
Aubameyang is set for his second spell with the French giants, having previously featured for the club two seasons ago.
According to the forward, he had to made financial effort to cushion his return to the European country after ending his spell with Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League.
“It’s true I had some very good offers not only from Saudi Arabia but two or three also in Europe. It was the choice of my heart,” said the former Arsenal and Chelsea striker.
“Yes I’ve made financial efforts to come here, but it’s what I want – to rediscover the stadium and the supporters.”
“I feel ready for the season, I’ve got a full season in my legs even if you (the press) think the level in Saudi Arabia is not the same. Personally I’m ready both mentally and physically.”
Aubameyang managed 17 goals in 32 league appearances for Al-Qadsiah during the 2024-25 campaign in the Saudi Pro League, but the veteran forward now returns to Marseille with unfinished business.
His return also marks a second Ligue 1 chapter more than a decade after his explosive emergence at AS Saint-Étienne, where he scored 37 goals between 2011 and 2013, earning a silver boot behind Zlatan Ibrahimović in 2012-13.
