Chelsea forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has hinted at a possible return to FC Barcelona, where he previously enjoyed a brief yet successful stint.
Aubameyang’s current situation at Chelsea is far from ideal, with a lack of playing time and a decrease in his overall involvement with the team. His relationship with the club appears to be heading towards an inevitable end.
The Gabonese international has fond memories of his time at Barcelona and would reportedly welcome the chance to return, should the right circumstances arise. He scored 13 goals in 24 appearances during his seven months with the club, making a return to Camp Nou an appealing prospect for both parties.
Though Aubameyang’s contract with Chelsea runs until 2024, it is believed he may push for a move this summer. Barcelona’s coaching staff and board members have expressed their satisfaction with Aubameyang’s previous performance and his excellent relationship with teammates.
Aubameyang has struggled to find his form at Chelsea, scoring only three goals and providing one assist in 18 appearances for the London club. His limited playing time has further fuelled speculation of a potential departure, with the forward not featuring in the starting lineup since November 6 against Arsenal.
Furthermore, Aubameyang was left off the squad list for the Champions League qualifiers, highlighting at the growing rift between him and the club.
Barcelona are reportedly open to re-signing Aubameyang as a low-cost option to bolster their attack during the summer transfer window. The Catalan club’s management, including head coach Xavi Hernández, still appreciates the Gabonese forward’s abilities and contribution during his time at the club.
Xavi’s fondness for Aubameyang and the forward’s versatility in playing both as a central striker and winger make his potential return an attractive prospect.
However, any move to re-sign Aubameyang will be dependent on the financial terms of the deal and Barcelona’s ability to balance their accounts. With Chelsea keen to reduce their wage bill and the forward’s value potentially decreasing, a deal might be more feasible than initially thought.
If Aubameyang does not receive assurances of more playing time or a change in management at Chelsea, he may well opt for a fresh start elsewhere, with a return to Barcelona appearing increasingly likely.
Sources:
- Aubameyang, a return that does not look bad at Barça [Mundo Deportivo]
- Aubameyang leaves the door open to return to Barça [Super Deporte]
- Barcelona could ‘re-sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the summer’ from Chelsea as a ‘low cost option’ after the Blues striker joined his old team-mates’ dressing-room celebrations following their last-gasp El Clasico win [Mail Online]