## Newspaper: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Returns to Marseille: The Latest Sports Update
**Byline:** Alex Thompson, Senior Football Correspondent
**Dateline:** Lyon, France – October 26, 2024
### Headline Flash: GAEL FORCE REUNITED! AUBAMEYANG SIGNS FOR MARSEILLE
In a blockbuster transfer that has stunned Ligue 1 and thrilled fans across Europe, legendary striker **Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang** has officially returned to his boyhood club, Olympique de Marseille. The French giants confirmed the deal late yesterday after completing paperwork for the free transfer from Chelsea FC. The Gabonese international penned an initial two-year contract with an option for a third season. At 35 years old, "Auba" brings elite goalscoring pedigree back to Stade Vélodrome – where he famously began his professional career over a decade ago.
### Homecoming After Whirlwind Journey
This move marks a dramatic homecoming for Aubameyang. Having burst onto the scene at Marseille in 2011/12 under coach Didier Deschamps before joining Saint-Étienne, he went on to conquer Serie A with Borussia Dortmund (scoring an incredible 98 goals across two spells), win major honours at Arsenal (including two FA Cups and becoming captain), and experience Champions League football with Chelsea. However, recent seasons saw disrupted form at Inter Milan (loan) and Stamford Bridge. Now, he returns not just as a prodigal son but as a battle-tested veteran desperate to rediscover his magic closer to familial roots. His father previously played for Marseille, deepening this emotional tie.
### What It Means for L’OM & Fans
Manager Gennaro Gattuso immediately welcomed the signing, citing Aubameyang’s "unfinished business" and proven mentality in big matches as vital assets for challenging PSG's dominance. For Les Phocéniciens supporters, it’s redemption song; they roared his name during warmups yesterday. Tactically, expect him to lead the line beside Alexis Sanchez – another experienced forward returning to form – creating arguably France’s most fearsome attacking partnership. With nine goals already this season spread thin amongst young talents like Gignac and Harit Ben Mohamed, adding Auba’s clinical edge could propel Marseille into title contention while revitalizing their European campaign.
### Player Reaction & First Impressions
Speaking exclusively post-signing, visible emotion cracked Aubameyang’s voice: *“C’est comme un rêve qui revient… Je suis fier de porter à nouveau ces couleurs bleu et blanc.”* (Translation: “It feels like a dream come true again… I am proud to wear these blue and white colours once more.”). He trained lightly today alongside new teammates, grinning widely during pattern drills. Local fan groups have already printed “WELCOME BACK AUBA!” banners promising raucous support when Monaco visits next weekend. All signs point towards debut inclusion on Matchday 9.
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As dust settles on one of summer’s last major transfers, one truth echoes through France: *Le Roi est de retour à Marseille.* (The King returns to Marseille). Kickoff cannot come soon enough.