Former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has openly described his move to Chelsea as “a big mistake,” revealing that the transfer was influenced by a combination of personal difficulties and circumstances at Barcelona.
In a candid interview, the Gabonese forward recounted a particularly challenging period during his time in Spain. “At that time I had a bad moment in Barcelona,” Aubameyang said. “I had a home break-in and Barça needed to sell a player — me or Memphis Depay — and the only thing that was on the table was Chelsea. That was a f*g big mistake.”
Aubameyang’s move to Chelsea in January 2022 was initially seen as a high-profile acquisition, with the Premier League side hoping his experience and goal-scoring ability could make an immediate impact. However, the striker struggled to replicate his prolific form from Arsenal, where he had been one of the league’s most feared forwards, winning multiple Golden Boots.
The 34-year-old explained that external pressures played a significant role in the transfer decision. “It was not a choice made purely on football reasons. Sometimes circumstances off the pitch force you into decisions you later regret,” he added.
At Chelsea, Aubameyang faced competition for starting positions and endured a period of inconsistent form. His time at Stamford Bridge was marked by flashes of brilliance but also challenges in adapting to the club’s tactics and expectations, ultimately leading to his departure after a relatively short spell.
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Reflecting on his career, Aubameyang emphasized the lessons learned from the experience. “I’ve played in some amazing clubs, and every move teaches you something. Going to Chelsea was tough, but it made me stronger and wiser,” he said.
The striker is now focused on rejuvenating his career, seeking stability, and making impactful contributions wherever he plays next. His honesty about past mistakes highlights the pressures top players face when navigating both personal issues and high-profile transfers in elite football.
