Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, once a key player for Barcelona, reflects on his brief stint with the club and his subsequent transfer to Chelsea. His departure in September 2022, marked a pivotal moment in his career, which he now describes as a significant mistake.
Aubameyang’s Brief but Impactful Tenure at Barcelona
Aubameyang joined Barcelona during the winter transfer of the 2021-22 season. His time at the club lasted only six months, yet he made a notable impact. During his tenure, he played in 17 La Liga matches, starting 13 of them. The striker scored 11 goals and provided one assist.
- Matches Played: 17
- Goals Scored: 11
- Assists: 1
One of his standout performances was a memorable brace against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, earning him a fond place in the hearts of Barcelona fans.
Reasons Behind His Departure
Despite his contributions, Aubameyang’s time at Barcelona came to an end when he was sold to Chelsea for €12 million. This decision was largely influenced by Barcelona’s financial situation, which demanded the sale of key players to stabilize their finances.
In an interview, Aubameyang expressed his regrets about leaving the team, stating, “It was a huge mistake to go to Chelsea. A bloody huge mistake.” He felt pressured to make this move, especially after facing personal challenges, including a recent burglary at his home.
Life at Chelsea: Expectations vs. Reality
Transitioning to Chelsea, Aubameyang had high hopes for a successful chapter in his career. He compared his situation to that of Olivier Giroud, who seamlessly moved from Arsenal to Chelsea. However, his experience has been markedly different.
Aubameyang admitted, “I thought it would go well. With me, it was different.” His expectations of a thriving career at Chelsea have not materialized as he had anticipated.
The former Barcelona striker continues to reflect on his choices, underscoring the challenges athletes face amid financial pressures and personal hardships.
