ALKHOBAR — In a move that has stirred debate among fans, Al Qadsiah has officially parted ways with star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang despite the Gabonese forward still having one year remaining on his contract. The 35-year-old said farewell to his teammates at the club's preseason camp in the Netherlands, bringing an end to a season in which he made a notable impact with 21 goals and three assists in 36 matches across all competitions. His overall contribution included 24 direct goal involvements and 715 successful passes, solidifying his role as one of the Roshn Saudi League's standout attackers. Aubameyang missed the season opener against Al Fateh due to a FIFA-imposed suspension carried over from a previous stint, but quickly made his mark—scoring his first league goal via penalty in a match-winning performance against Al Ahli on Matchday 5. He would go on to find the net against nearly every top-flight opponent, reaffirming his credentials as a high-caliber forward with a résumé spanning top European leagues. Despite his contributions, head coach Michel González opted for a new direction this summer, citing fitness dynamics and a strategic youth refresh. Sources indicate the club's decision was influenced by both technical and medical evaluations, and Aubameyang's exit was ultimately settled by mutual agreement. The former Arsenal and Barcelona striker appeared surprised by the decision and took to social media to defend his form and athleticism, comparing his running statistics favorably against other veterans in the league, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema. "I'm 36, not 63," he wrote in a post, attaching a sprint chart showcasing his top-level physical output. To replace him, Al Qadsiah have completed the signing of young Italian striker Mateo Retegui, signaling a generational shift as the club prepares for a new chapter. The move aligns with González's vision of building a younger, faster squad capable of maintaining momentum after reaching the King's Cup final and finishing fourth in the league last season.
