Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's father has described the 34-year-old's time at Chelsea as a 'nightmare' and revealed why his move to Marseille came as a big 'relief'.
Aubameyang sealed his escape from the Premier League giants earlier this month after signing a three-year deal with the French side.
The transfer puts an end to his disappointing spell at Chelsea and his ill-fated return to the Premier League following his previous spell with Arsenal.
Aubameyang's father believes the transfer to Marseille will help resurrect his son's career after a 'nightmare year at Chelsea'.
Speaking to L'Equipe, Pierre-Francois said: 'His jaw was broken by robbers at his home in Barcelona while trying to protect his wife and children.
'At Chelsea, he played with a mask at the start. It could only be a nightmare year. Now it's over. He has a smile. He knows that I'm seeing the light again because I can walk and run since my last operation.'
Aubameyang's father went on to add: 'He's signing for [Marseille]. It is a big relief after the nightmare year that he experienced [at Chelsea].'
'There was contact with Saudi Arabia, but when [Marseille] come forward… who hasn't dreamed of playing for this club? Especially in Africa. I keep receiving messages from back home.'
Aubameyang joined Chelsea on deadline day last summer as the anticipated solution to their search for an out-and-out goalscorer No 9.
His former Borussia Dortmund mentor Thomas Tuchel being in charge of Chelsea at the time was a big part of the appeal.
However, Aubameyang fell down the pecking order soon after Tuchel was sacked - despite an encouraging start under Graham Potter.
The team's form faded and Aubameyang found himself behind false nine Kai Havertz when it came to Potter's preferences.
Aubamyeng was later left out of Chelsea's squad for the Champions League knockout stages - causing speculation over his future at the club.
That alerted a number of clubs to his situation in Europe, the MLS and Saudi Arabia before Marseille emerged as main contenders to sign the 34 year-old.
Marseille finished third in the French league last season securing qualification for the Champions League qualifying round.
Their new manager Marcelino is a long-term admirer of Aubameyang and was in charge of Valencia when the striker scored a Europa League semi-final against the La Liga side in 2019.
Aubameyang also has experience of playing in Ligue 1, having previously represented St Etienne.