Football Star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Has Returned to Marseille Following His Departure from Al-Qadsiah
In a move that underlines Marseille's strategy to rebuild their forward line, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has returned to the Ligue 1 giants after a stint in the Saudi Pro League [1]. Aubameyang, who previously played for Marseille in the 2023-24 season, has signed a two-year contract with an option for another year [3].
During his first stint at Marseille, Aubameyang scored an impressive 30 goals and registered 11 assists in 51 games across all competitions, helping the club reach the Europa League semi-finals—a level of contribution not seen since Didier Drogba in 2003-04 [1][3].
Before rejoining Marseille, Aubameyang played the 2024-25 season with Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 17 goals in 32 matches [1][5]. He mutually terminated his contract with Al Qadsiah earlier in July 2025, then chose to return to Marseille, turning down other offers from Saudi clubs [3].
As Marseille prepare for their domestic season, which begins against Rennes on August 15, Aubameyang's competitive performance statistics for his second stint at Marseille are not yet available. However, the club sees him as a key piece in their Champions League campaign and Ligue 1 ambitions given his experience and recent goal-scoring form [1][3].
Aubameyang has enjoyed success against Rennes during his time in Ligue 1, scoring five goals against them, more than against any other team except Lorient [1]. His return to Marseille is a continuation of his previous stint with the club and a move that follows Marseille's impressive scoring form last season, where they scored the second-most goals in the top-flight [1].
The transfer of Aubameyang to Marseille also includes a reported move for Feyenoord's Igor Paixao [3]. Aubameyang's move to Marseille is a return to the club he previously played for, and his signing underlines Marseille's commitment to strengthening their attack ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, which includes a return to the Champions League.
Background and Recent Performance:
| Season | Club | Goals | Assists | Appearances | Notes | |--------------------|-------------------|-------|---------|-------------|------------------------------------------| | 2023-24 | Marseille | 30 | 11 | 51 | Europa League semi-finalist | | 2024-25 | Al Qadsiah (Saudi)| 17 | - | 32 | Maintained high scoring despite age | | 2025-26 (just joined)| Marseille | N/A | N/A | N/A | Recently re-signed; season stats pending |
Only Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Erling Haaland scored more goals across Europe's top five leagues in the 2023-24 season than Aubameyang [1]. With Aubameyang's return, Marseille aim to capitalise on his goal-scoring ability and experience to challenge for honours in both the Ligue 1 and Champions League competitions.
Aubameyang's return to Marseille signifies a strong focus on sports and health, as he aims to boost their forward line with his goal-scoring ability. His impressive performance statistics in the European leagues, most notably his time with the Premier League, make him an attractive addition to the Ligue 1 giants. Additionally, his experience and recent form in football could potentially lead Marseille to success in both the Ligue 1 and Champions League competitions this season.
