DOR OPENS FOR PEP

Manchester City target Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang dropped by Dortmund over ‘internal affairs’

In-demand striker was due to line up against Sporting Lisbon but was axed at last minute by Thomas Tuchel

Jamie Gordon

Published: 19:19, 2 Nov 2016
Updated: 20:29, 2 Nov 2016

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BORUSSIA DORTMUND striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been dropped from their Champions League clash against Sporting Lisbon at the last minute.

Manchester City are leading a host of Premier League clubs who are chasing the in-form hitman.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a target for Europe's top clubsCredit: AP:Associated Press

And his shock omission from a key game for "internal affairs" will increase speculation linking the Gabon star with a January exit.

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Pundit Jan Agge Flortoft tweeted: "Aubameyang NOT in Dortmund-squad!!!!! His match-shirt was ready in the dressing-room, but because of 'internal affairs' no Aubameyang now."

Manchester United and Chelsea are believed to be the other English clubs keeping a close eye on Aubameyang with Real Madrid also paying close attention.

Aubameyang is believed to be annoyed at Thomas Tuchel's rotation policyCredit: Reuters

Thomas Tuchel confirmed his striker was suspended until ThursdayCredit: EPA

The Gabonese international has scored 10 goals in 13 games for Dortmund this season to highlight his status as one of Europe's top strikers.

But he is rumoured to be upset at Thomas Tuchel's rotation policy.

The chief confirmed ahead of the clash with Sporting that his star frontman had been left out as he is suspended until Thursday but refused to explain further.

Dortmund have proved in the past they will not be held to ransom by players but will sell on their own terms in order to protect their ideals.

As well as seeing the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Mats Hummels join Bundesliga rivals Bayern Munich, Henrikh Mkhitaryan was allowed to join United while Ilkay Gundogan moved to City.

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