Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returns to Marseille squad for Rennes clash

French side Olympique de Marseille have recalled Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to the squad ahead of Sunday’s Ligue 1 meeting with Stade Rennais FC after he missed last weekend’s victory over Le Havre.

The experienced forward had been left out of the travelling squad following incidents that took place at Marseille’s Commanderie training centre, where tensions reportedly escalated during a difficult period for the club.

Aubameyang was said to have been identified as one of the leading figures among the group of players involved in the unrest, leading to disciplinary measures being taken ahead of the trip to Le Havre.

Despite his absence, Marseille managed to secure a victory away from home, but attention quickly turned to whether the former Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund striker would be brought back before the final match of the Ligue 1 campaign.

Several reports in France now indicate that the Gabon international has been reinstated and will be available for selection when Marseille host Rennes on Sunday.

His return comes at a crucial moment for the club, with tensions continuing to surround Marseille during the closing stages of the season.

Aubameyang has remained one of Marseille’s most experienced figures throughout the campaign and his availability offers an important boost ahead of the final fixture.

The decision to restore the striker to the squad also signals an attempt to calm the atmosphere around the club after a turbulent week dominated by internal issues and disciplinary matters.

Marseille’s preparations for the Rennes encounter have taken place under intense scrutiny following the incidents at the training ground, with the club seeking to finish the season on a positive note despite the unrest that has overshadowed recent weeks.

Sunday’s clash against Rennes will now see Aubameyang back in contention as Marseille look to close out their Ligue 1 season amid a tense atmosphere surrounding the club.