Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has thrilled football fans for over a decade. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and charismatic personality have made him one of the most exciting strikers of his generation. From Borussia Dortmund to Arsenal and beyond, Aubameyang’s career has been filled with goals, trophies, and dramatic moments.
Now in 2025, the Gabonese striker continues to make an impact. Let’s explore his journey, strengths, and legacy.
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Early Life and Rise to Stardom
A Football Family
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was born on June 18, 1989, in Laval, France. His father, Pierre Aubameyang, was a former Gabonese international, while his mother was Spanish.
With football in his blood, it was no surprise that he pursued a professional career.
AC Milan and Loan Spells
Aubameyang joined AC Milan’s youth academy in 2007. However, he never made a senior appearance for the club. Instead, he was loaned out to Dijon, Lille, and Monaco in France.
His real breakthrough came at Saint-Étienne in 2011. There, he developed into a lethal forward, scoring 35 goals in 73 league games. His pace, movement, and finishing caught the eye of Borussia Dortmund, who signed him in 2013.
Borussia Dortmund: A Star is Born (2013-2018)
Instant Impact in Germany
Aubameyang’s debut for Dortmund was unforgettable. He scored a hat-trick in his first Bundesliga game against Augsburg. His speed and composure in front of goal made him an instant fan favorite.
Becoming Dortmund’s Main Man
With Robert Lewandowski leaving for Bayern Munich in 2014, Aubameyang became Dortmund’s main striker. Over the next few seasons, he was unstoppable, scoring 98 goals in 144 Bundesliga games.
Winning the Golden Boot
In the 2016-17 season, Aubameyang won the Bundesliga Golden Boot with 31 goals, beating Lewandowski. That same year, he helped Dortmund win the DFB-Pokal (German Cup), his first major trophy.
By 2018, top European clubs were after him. Arsenal made their move in January 2018, signing him for a club-record £56 million.
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A Dream Start in London
Aubameyang adapted to the Premier League quickly. He scored 10 goals in 13 league games in his first half-season.
In 2018-19, he won the Premier League Golden Boot, scoring 22 goals. He shared the award with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané.
Captain and FA Cup Hero
By 2019-20, Aubameyang became Arsenal’s captain. He led by example, scoring twice in the FA Cup final against Chelsea. His goals secured a 2-1 victory, winning Arsenal their 14th FA Cup title.
Contract Renewal and Decline
In September 2020, Aubameyang signed a new three-year contract, becoming Arsenal’s highest-paid player. However, his form dipped. He struggled with injuries, illness, and inconsistent performances.
By 2021-22, his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta soured. After repeated disciplinary issues, Arsenal stripped him of the captaincy and terminated his contract in January 2022.
This marked a dramatic end to his once-promising Arsenal career.
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Reviving His Career at Barcelona
Aubameyang joined Barcelona on a free transfer in January 2022. He made an instant impact, scoring 13 goals in 23 games. His goals helped Barcelona finish second in La Liga.
However, with Robert Lewandowski arriving in 2022, Aubameyang became surplus to requirements. In a surprise move, he signed for Chelsea in September 2022.
Chelsea Struggles
At Chelsea, Aubameyang’s form collapsed. Under Graham Potter, he played sporadically and struggled to fit into the team. By January 2023, he was out of favor.
His time at Chelsea was short-lived, and by summer 2023, he left for Olympique de Marseille in France.
Marseille and Late Career (2023-Present)
Finding Form Again in Ligue 1
Aubameyang rediscovered his scoring touch at Marseille. In his first season, he became the club’s top scorer, helping them qualify for the Champions League.
Even at 35 years old in 2025, he remains a dangerous forward, using his speed and experience to outplay defenders.
Gabon National Team Hero
Aubameyang has been Gabon’s best-ever player. He made his international debut in 2009 and captained the team for many years.
He led Gabon to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals in 2012, their best-ever performance.
Although he retired from international football in 2022, his impact on Gabonese football is unmatched.
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Playing Style: Why Aubameyang is Unique
1. Blazing Speed
Aubameyang is one of the fastest strikers ever. His acceleration and sprint speed make him a nightmare for defenders.
2. Clinical Finishing
Whether it's a one-on-one, a volley, or a powerful strike, Aubameyang knows how to score. His composure in front of goal is elite.
3. Intelligent Movement
His ability to find space and time his runs is world-class. He often beats offside traps to get behind defenders.
4. Versatility
Aubameyang can play as a central striker or left winger. This allows teams to use him in different attacking setups.
Memorable Moments
1. FA Cup Final Heroics (2020)
Aubameyang’s brace secured Arsenal’s 14th FA Cup against Chelsea.
2. Bundesliga Golden Boot (2017)
He outscored Lewandowski to win Germany’s top scorer award.
3. Hat-Trick on Dortmund Debut (2013)
Scoring three goals in his first Bundesliga match announced his arrival.
4. Barcelona’s Revival (2022)
He scored crucial goals to help Barcelona finish second in La Liga.
Where Will Aubameyang Go Next?
As he enters the twilight of his career, Aubameyang has several options:
1. Stay at Marseille
If he continues performing, he could extend his contract and remain in France.
2. Move to MLS or Saudi Arabia
Many aging stars move to MLS or the Saudi Pro League for one last payday. Aubameyang could follow the trend.
3. Retirement and Coaching
He may retire and take up a role in coaching or punditry, passing on his experience to young strikers.
Legacy and Impact
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be remembered as one of the most exciting strikers of his era. His pace, goals, and charisma made him a fan favorite everywhere he played.
Despite ups and downs, his career has been filled with memorable moments and silverware.
Whether in Dortmund, Arsenal, or Barcelona, Aubameyang has left a lasting mark on football. His legacy as a goal machine and leader is undeniable.
Conclusion
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s journey has been a mix of speed, success, and setbacks. From Milan to Marseille, he has proven his talent in multiple leagues.
Even in 2025, he remains a force to be reckoned with. Football fans will never forget the electrifying pace and deadly finishing of Aubameyang.
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