Frank Lampard expresses opinion on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the midst of a dispute with Chelsea.

 

Former Arsenal talisman, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, has been the subject of intense speculation linking him with a summer departure from Chelsea. However, with the arrival of Frank Lampard as caretaker manager, there is a possibility that the Gabonese striker may be given a chance to redeem himself at Stamford Bridge. Aubameyang has only featured in five matches for Chelsea since the turn of the year and was excluded from the squad in the recent goalless draw against Liverpool under the tutelage of first-team coach, Bruno Saltor.

Lampard's initial interest in Aubameyang was reported by The Athletic in 2021, revealing that the Blues legend had sought to acquire Aubameyang during his contract standoff at Arsenal in 2020. However, the Chelsea board overruled Lampard's request and instead secured the signing of Timo Werner from RB Leipzig. Nevertheless, Lampard now has a second chance to work with Aubameyang and possibly integrate him back into the first-team fold during his stint as caretaker boss.

Despite signing a two-year deal with Chelsea in the summer of 2022, Aubameyang has only managed to score three goals in 19 appearances so far and has become a marginal figure in recent months. His off-pitch actions have also not helped his case, with his decision to fly back to Barcelona for last month's El Clasico reportedly causing a rift between him and Chelsea, with the club rumoured to be considering terminating his contract at the end of the season.

It is unclear whether Chelsea would still pursue the idea of terminating Aubameyang's contract if Lampard reintegrates him back into the team and the striker manages to impress. However, it is worth noting that even if Aubameyang is utilised by Lampard over the coming months, he will not be able to feature in the Champions League quarter-final tie against Real Madrid, as he has been excluded from the club's European squad list.

Lampard's first test as Chelsea caretaker manager comes on Saturday when they face Wolves at home in the Premier League. It remains to be seen whether Aubameyang will be given a chance to prove himself and possibly reignite his Chelsea career. The prospect of Lampard working with Aubameyang once more could be a source of excitement for Chelsea fans, particularly given the former Arsenal captain's proven scoring record in the Premier League.

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