Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will not extend his contract with Olympique de Marseille. The Gabonese striker, currently tied to the club until June 2026, is already preparing for a free departure in search of a new challenge, according to sources close to him. A major blow for Marseille as they push for European qualification.
Aubameyang’s Marseille chapter is nearing its end with just three months left on his deal. Signed on a free transfer last summer after leaving Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia, the 36-year-old striker has reportedly rejected contract extension offers until 2027 proposed by club president Pablo Longoria. Former Gabon international defender Parfait Ndong confirmed the situation on March 12 in Mediafoot, explaining that Aubameyang’s age is pushing him toward a “return to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere.” Despite recent rumors of a comeback to Marseille after a brief stint in Saudi Arabia, the latest reports point to a definitive move to Al-Qadsiah or another Saudi club, attracted by a lucrative deal.
This unexpected decision leaves Marseille in a difficult position. Despite his age, Aubameyang delivered a strong season with decisive goals—scoring 30 times in 51 appearances during his first spell—and became a key figure in the club’s attacking revival. However, growing speculation since early March has already placed him among potential departures, reflecting internal uncertainty. Losing him on a free transfer would be a financial setback for the club, already dealing with transfer market constraints, while Saudi offers continue to resurface.
The timing could not be worse. While Aubameyang is still wearing the Marseille jersey, his future appears elsewhere. The club is quietly preparing for life without its attacking leader, at a crucial moment in the race for Europe. Although some sources have mentioned a possible contract extension after failed negotiations with Al-Ettifaq, the financial appeal of Saudi Arabia now seems decisive, confirming the likelihood of a free exit.
For Marseille fans, it’s a painful situation. The Gabonese forward—an unexpected hero this season with 8 goals and 10 assists despite a recent dip in form—appears set to prioritize one final lucrative challenge abroad over staying loyal to the club. Marseille will now have to reinvent itself quickly, while Aubameyang looks ahead to a final chapter in the Saudi Pro League, where he has already proven his scoring ability with 17 goals.