Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reverses his international retirement as rumours abound about his potential return to Barcelona.

• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has reversed his decision to retire from international football, following a meeting with Gabon’s President, Ali Bongo Ondimba.
• Rumours about Aubameyang’s potential return to Barcelona are gathering steam. The deal, rumoured to be a bargain at €5 million, hinges on Aubameyang accepting a reduced salary.
• Aubameyang’s return could potentially influence his compatriot, Mario Lemina, to reconsider his own retirement from the national team. 

Former Arsenal captain and Gabon’s much-loved forward, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, has announced a reversal of his international retirement.

This surprising decision was made following an intimate meeting with Gabon’s President, Ali Bongo Ondimba, fanning the flames of rumours about a possible return to Barcelona.

A trip down memory lane: Aubameyang’s international journey

Aubameyang’s international career has been a rollercoaster ride. His tearful goodbye to international football last year is still fresh in our memories. The decision to retire was not a whim; he consciously chose to direct his focus towards his club career at Barcelona. His impressive tally of 13 goals in 22 games for the Spanish giants highlighted his commitment.

Then he moved to Chelsea and his playing time and form evaporated.

Aubameyang’s words following his meeting with the Gabonese President reveal his deep-seated patriotism: “A few days ago, I had the immense honour of being received by the President of the Republic of my country, Ali Bongo Ondimba… Following this, I therefore put myself at the disposal of my country and of the coach Patrice Neveu… Panther once, Panther forever,” he said.

The return of the Panther: Implications and possible domino effect

Aubameyang’s decision to come back from international retirement has sparked questions about another player who also retired. His compatriot Mario Lemina, who also hung up his international boots last year, is now in the spotlight. Will Aubameyang’s return prompt Lemina to reconsider his decision? Only time will tell.

The road ahead: Aubameyang’s legacy and his potential Barcelona comeback

Approaching his 34th birthday, Aubameyang’s career still has a few chapters left to play out.

His return to international football is a timely shot in the arm for Gabon’s football scene. His past performances for Gabon, including scoring 30 goals in 72 appearances and an impressive stint at the 2012 Olympic tournament, make his return even more impactful.

Meanwhile, whispers of Aubameyang’s potential return to Barcelona have been gaining momentum.

After a challenging time at Chelsea, it seems Barcelona may be ready to welcome their former striker back. Aubameyang’s previous stint at Camp Nou was impressive, with 13 goals in 24 games.

His potential return, rumoured to be at a bargain €5 million, could be a win-win situation for both the player and the club. However, the deal hinges on Aubameyang’s acceptance of a reduced salary, a sacrifice he seems ready to make.

The final decision on his return to Barcelona would be contingent on the club’s financial status and their adherence to Financial Fair Play regulations.

But one thing is clear: Aubameyang’s return to the international stage and to Barcelona presents a fascinating narrative for football fans around the world.