Why does Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang want to return to Marseille?

One year after departing for Saudi Arabia, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is closing in on a return to Marseille. The 36-year-old striker is expected to sign a two-year deal with OM, favouring a return to the Vélodrome over remaining in the Gulf, according to a report from L’Équipe.Marseille and Aubameyang are in advanced talks for a deal that would see the Gabon international return to the club he left just twelve months ago. “The two parties have drawn closer and hope to reach a final agreement quickly,” the club cautiously indicated on Saturday to L’Équipe. The tone is typically guarded — but behind the scenes, enthusiasm is reportedly high.

The veteran forward is understood to have made OM his priority in Europe following a swift round of contacts earlier this month, shortly after his Saudi club, Al-Qadsiah, informed him of their intent to sign a younger striker this summer. Aubameyang was invited to begin discussions around a contract termination, opening the door to a potential return to France

OM coach Roberto De Zerbi has long admired the former Arsenal and Dortmund man and made no secret of his wish to work with him again. “He’s a super player, a great person,” said the Italian coach on Friday to L’Équipe. “I was disappointed when he left last season.”

De Zerbi also highlighted his longstanding ties with the Aubameyang family — having played alongside Pierre-Emerick’s brother, Willy, and known his father, Pierre, for several years. It’s a familiarity that helped OM move quickly once a return became feasible.

Al-Qadsiah’s decision to change direction, despite a productive season from Aubameyang — notably in tandem with Mexico international Julian Quiñones — was both abrupt and opportunistic. It presented Marseille with an unexpected chance to bring back a player who, despite his 36 years, remains one of the most experienced forwards on the continent.

Initial contact was difficult. It wasn’t until July 7th, during a visit to Saint-Étienne’s training centre (his nephew Enzo was undergoing a trial), that the club were able to reach the striker. Aubameyang made his intentions clear soon after.

OM’s offer — a two-year deal, with a far leaner salary package than the record-breaking €32m contract he signed in 2023 — was swiftly accepted in principle. Despite approaches from Turkish clubs, sides in the Gulf, and even a short-lived attempt from Paris FC, Aubameyang prioritised Marseille’s sporting project.Beyond the financial compromise, this was a personal decision. Aubameyang and his family had settled in Khobar, where he was based last season. Remaining in the region — with Saudi side Al-Ettifaq showing strong interest — would have meant continuity for his children and wife.

But the pull of the Vélodrome, Champions League football, and the belief in De Zerbi’s project proved decisive. After a year away, Aubameyang is set to return to OM — this time, not as the highest-paid player in club history, but as a veteran forward with unfinished business.GFFN | George Boxall