Gabon captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has announced his retirement from the national team, declaring he felt “humiliated” by his treatment following the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The 37-year-old, who remains the top scorer in the history of the Panthers, was singled out by the Gabonese government as responsible for the team’s early exit.
The Fallout from AFCON
During a recent television interview, the veteran striker expressed his deep frustration regarding the ordeal. “They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured,” he stated. “This is the last straw, and I’d rather stop here.” Gabon exited the tournament in the group stage after three consecutive defeats, concluding with a loss to Ivory Coast.
Government Intervention
- Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema remarked at the time, “It’s a part of our national identity that has been weakened.”
- The government responded by firing the coaching staff, suspending the team indefinitely, and sidelining both Aubameyang and 38-year-old teammate Bruno Ecuele Manga.
- The suspension of these veteran mainstays sparked significant outrage among Gabonese supporters.
Reflecting on the broader situation, Aubameyang noted, “I think the team’s problems run much deeper than the little person that I am,” said the forward, who previously established himself as one of Europe’s top strikers during his time at Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal.
Future Outlook
Aubameyang has joined Deportivo La Coruna, who have recently returned to La Liga. Meanwhile, Gabon’s new head coach, Sebastien Migne, must now prepare for upcoming AFCON qualifiers without his former captain. Gabon is currently placed in Group A alongside Morocco, Niger, and Lesotho. The report also notes that leaving Marseille to join Deportivo La Coruna, who have just returned to La Liga after a long spell in the wilderness, the Gabonese striker has set himself what is likely to be a final challenge in Europe.
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