Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the Gabon national team captain and all-time leading scorer, has declared his departure from international football. The decision comes in the wake of his exclusion and subsequent reinstatement following Gabon's disappointing performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Morocco. Aubameyang expressed feelings of humiliation regarding the treatment he received from the Gabonese authorities, particularly after being blamed for the team's failure in the tournament.
During a recent television interview, the 37-year-old striker stated, "They humiliated and smeared me even though I played at the AFCON while injured." This statement underscores the emotional toll that the recent events have taken on him. Gabon was eliminated from the AFCON in the group stage, suffering three defeats, including a final loss to Ivory Coast, which ultimately sealed their fate in the tournament.
The Gabonese government had publicly singled out Aubameyang for the team's shortcomings, leading to significant backlash from fans and supporters. In response to the team's poor showing, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema remarked on the weakening of national pride, stating, "It's a part of our national identity that has been weakened." Following the tournament, the coaching staff was dismissed, and both Aubameyang and fellow veteran Bruno Ecuele Manga were suspended from the squad, a move that ignited outrage among Gabonese supporters.
Aubameyang reflected on the situation, suggesting that the issues plaguing the team extend beyond individual players, saying, "I think the team's problems run much deeper than the little person that I am." His comments highlight the complexity of the challenges facing the Gabon national team, which has struggled to find success on the continental stage.
In a bid to refocus his career, Aubameyang has transitioned from Marseille to Deportivo La Coruna, a club recently promoted back to La Liga after a lengthy absence. This move signifies a new chapter for the experienced striker as he aims to make an impact in the Spanish league.
With Aubameyang's departure from the national team, new coach Sebastien Migne faces the challenge of preparing Gabon for their upcoming AFCON qualifiers. The team is set to compete in Group A alongside World Cup quarter-finalists Morocco, as well as Niger and Lesotho. The absence of Aubameyang, a key figure in Gabonese football, will undoubtedly have significant implications for the squad as they look to rebuild and regain their competitive edge.
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