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Expert shares 'big' Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang claim amid Chelsea talks - 'all of a sudden'
Noel Whelan has claimed he would “understand” if Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was “annoyed” about the sacking of Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, urged the 32-year-old to show “professionalism” and “leadership” under new boss Graham Potter.
Tuchel was sacked on Wednesday (7 September) with deadline-day signing Aubameyang having played just 59 minutes under his stewardship.
As quoted by the London Evening Standard (2 September), the former Arsenal striker insisted it was an “honour and a joy” to reunite with the German – with the pair having enjoyed a close relationship at Borussia Dortmund.
As per The Telegraph (8 September), Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has already contacted Aubameyang to assure him that he was a “club signing” rather than a manager-specific addition.
However, Whelan insisted Tuchel would have been a “big factor” behind the striker’s decision to join the Blues.
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He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I would understand if Aubameyang is a bit annoyed.
“He had an understanding with Tuchel and that relationship will have been a big factor in coming to the club.
“All of a sudden now, he’s been sacked after one game. I can see that side of it.
“Now he needs to show his professionalism. He’s got to be a leader, an example – and get on with his job.
“He’s being paid to score goals and get results for Chelsea – no matter who the manager is.”
Chelsea sit sixth in the Premier League.
Aubameyang signed a two-year deal at Stamford Bridge.
In other news, Football Insider updates as Man United and Chelsea race to seal behind-the-scenes deal.