Marseille slashes payroll as Aubameyang departs for Deportivo

Officially on Friday evening, Gabonese striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left French Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille to join Spain's Deportivo La Coruña. Marseille will receive roughly €1.5 million as part of the wage‑cutting move in a bid to trim its payroll.

The French club confirmed the transfer on Friday, highlighting its intention to reduce wage commitments as part of a broader financial recalibration. Aubameyang's departure marks the second exit from OM this window, underscoring the club's shift towards fiscal stability.

Media reports indicate Marseille will receive around €1.5 million, a modest sum reflecting Aubameyang's valuation after an uneven spell at the club. The fee aligns with the club's aim to lower its wage obligations while recouping part of the player's cost.

During his first spell at Marseille, Aubameyang delivered individually exceptional performances despite the team's disastrous collective season. His personal contributions stood out even as the club struggled overall.

The second spell proved almost as disappointing, with the striker less clinical in front of goal and often overused because of Amine Gouiri’s injury. At times he lacked the sharpness that had defined his earlier tenure.

Nevertheless, Aubameyang provided a fine high point by scoring a brace at home against Olympique Lyonnais, showcasing his lingering quality. That performance offered a brief glimpse of his former brilliance.

The contrast between Marseille’s cost‑cutting agenda and Aubameyang’s fleeting moments of brilliance illustrates the club’s shift from relying on star power to prioritising fiscal stability, while the Gabonese forward departs with a reminder of his remaining ability. Both parties move forward with clear objectives: Marseille with a trimmed payroll, Aubameyang with a fresh start in Spain.