Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang admits Chelsea transfer was a ‘f*g big mistake’

Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has called his move to Chelsea a major error in judgment.

The Gabonese forward left Barcelona hoping to reunite with former Borussia Dortmund manager Thomas Tuchel. He believed returning to the Premier League could rejuvenate his career.

At Barcelona, Aubameyang started 13 matches and made 17 league appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing one assist. Despite his contributions, the club’s financial troubles forced player sales, and his name was first on the list.

Tuchel, however, was sacked shortly after Aubameyang’s arrival. The striker’s transfer to West London quickly appeared ill-timed.

Speaking to Canal+, Aubameyang admitted the move was a misstep.

“That was a big mistake going there. It was a f*****g big mistake,” he said.

He explained the circumstances surrounding the transfer.

“At that time I had a bad moment in Barcelona. I had a home break-in and Barca needed to sell a player, me or Memphis Depay, and the only thing that was on the table was Chelsea. So I said OK, for my family, I will move away, even if it’s Chelsea…”

Aubameyang had hoped history would repeat itself. “I was thinking maybe it will be okay, Olivier Giroud went from Arsenal to Chelsea and he had no problems, but for me it was different,” he added.

The 36-year-old is now with Marseille after a brief stint in Saudi Arabia with Al Qadsiah. He continues to represent Gabon, helping his nation push for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.