Former Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has publicly confessed that his decision to join Chelsea from Barcelona was a colossal error in judgement.
The Confession: A Transfer Regret
Appearing on the YouTube channel of former AFTV personality Troopz, the Gabon international did not hold back, labelling the move a ‘f*****g big mistake.’ This stark admission comes after his acrimonious departure from Arsenal, where his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta broke down.
Aubameyang’s career had been revitalised at Barcelona, but the club’s financial situation in the summer of 2022 forced a sale. The choice was between selling him or Memphis Depay. Compounding this professional dilemma, Aubameyang had endured the personal trauma of a violent home burglary during his time in Catalonia.
Why Chelsea Seemed Like the Only Option
With Chelsea as the only concrete offer, Aubameyang felt his hand was forced. ‘So I said ok, for my family, I will move away, even if it’s Chelsea,’ he explained. He also clung to the hope of a successful reunion with Thomas Tuchel, the manager with whom he had flourished at Borussia Dortmund.
That hope was short-lived. Tuchel was dismissed almost immediately after Aubameyang’s arrival at Stamford Bridge. The striker subsequently failed to win the trust of Graham Potter, Tuchel's successor, and his time in West London quickly unravelled.
Aubameyang recalled looking for a positive precedent, citing Olivier Giroud's smooth transition from Arsenal to Chelsea. ‘But for me it was different,’ he conceded.
Life After Chelsea and Fond Arsenal Memories
Now playing for Marseille after a brief spell in Saudi Arabia with Al Qadsiah, the 36-year-old is currently on international duty. His Gabon side is preparing for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Nigeria, where he will face former Arsenal teammate Alex Iwobi.
Iwobi, who still holds deep affection for his old skipper, described their relationship warmly. ‘I was his little brother,’ Iwobi said. ‘He was taking care of me... His aura and his charisma are just amazing. He’s always playing with a smile on his face.’
