Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's Wing Defense: How Marseille Stopped Lionel Messi and Others
# Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's Wing Defense: How Marseille Stopped Lionel Messi and Others
## Introduction to Aubameyang's Role
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a striker known for his pace and finishing ability, became a surprising asset in defense during his time at Olympique de Marseille. In the 2012-2013 Ligue 1 season, Aubameyang was deployed as a wing defender, a role that tested his versatility and defensive awareness. This unexpected positional shift not only provided Marseille with a much-needed boost but also showcased Aubameyang's ability to adapt to different roles on the pitch.
## Aubameyang's Defensive Impact
Aubameyang's wing defense was a game-changer for Marseille. His speed and agility allowed him to cover the flanks effectively, neutralizing the threat of opposing wingers and playmakers. His positional sense was key; he often intercepted passes and dispossess opponents, limiting their ability to create chances. One of the standout moments of his defensive performance came against Lionel Messi and Barcelona. Aubameyang tracked Messi closely,Football World Dynamics Station preventing him from making dangerous runs and cutting inside.
## Comparing Aubameyang to Other Stars
Deploying Aubameyang as a wing defender was a masterstroke by then-Marseille coach Laurent Blanc. It allowed Marseille to neutralize not just Messi but also other top-tier attackers like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar. Aubameyang's ability to mirror opponents' movements and adapt to different playing styles made him a formidable defender. His physicality and strength also helped him outmatch wingers who tried to use speed to bypass him.
## The Defensive System and Team Success
Aubameyang's success in defense wasn't just down to his individual effort. Marseille's defensive system was well-organized, with midfielders providing cover and the center-backs offering a solid base. Aubameyang's leadership on the pitch also inspired his teammates, as he became one of the team's most reliable players. This collective effort helped Marseille secure a competitive position in Ligue 1 that season, finishing fourth and showing signs of a team on the rise.
## Legacy of Aubameyang's Wing Defense
Aubameyang's performance as a wing defender in Marseille remains a unique chapter in his career. It demonstrated his ability to take on different roles and adapt to the needs of his team. His ability to stop some of the world's best players, including Messi, highlighted his defensive prowess and cemented his reputation as a complete footballer.
In conclusion, Aubameyang's wing defense in the 2012-2013 season was a key factor in Marseille's success and showcased his versatility as a footballer. His ability to stop Lionel Messi and other top attackers remains a testament to his defensive skills and leadership.