Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Dropped as Gabon Suspends National Team After AFCON 2025 Disaster

The Gabonese government has implemented radical measures following the national football team's disastrous performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, dismissing the entire coaching staff and suspending all team activities indefinitely.

In a press statement released to the public, the “Panthers” have been placed on an indefinite hiatus in response to their disappointing tournament campaign.

The move reflects the government’s growing impatience with the national team’s results and its desire to enforce accountability at all levels of Gabonese football.

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In a significant and controversial decision, star forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and veteran defender Bruno Ecuele Manga have been permanently dropped from the national squad.

This development marks the end of an era for two of Gabon’s most prominent footballers, who have represented the country for more than a decade.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a former captain and one of Africa’s most recognisable football stars, has been a central figure in Gabonese football, while Manga’s leadership and experience at the back have been relied upon in multiple continental tournaments.

The Ministry of Sports of Gabon issued a strong statement outlining the reasoning behind the unprecedented decisions.

“Given the dishonourable performance of the Panthers during the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025,” the statement read in part.

“And considering the multifaceted effects that are the complete opposite of the ethical values and exemplary conduct advocated by the 5th Republic, the Government decides the dissolution of the technical staff, suspension of the National Team until further notice and sidelining (exclusion) of players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

“Furthermore, the Government calls upon the Gabonese Football Federation to take full responsibility.”

The statement underscores the government’s frustration with both the team’s on-field results and the perceived lack of discipline and professionalism within the federation.

The severe measures were prompted by Gabon’s poor showing at the tournament, where the team lost all three of their group stage matches, finishing last in a group that included Cameroon (1-0), Mozambique (3-2), and Côte d’Ivoire (3-2).

Despite high expectations, the Panthers were unable to secure a single point or demonstrate cohesion, igniting widespread criticism from fans, the media, and now the government.

Adding to the turmoil, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had already left the national team camp after the second group match, returning to his club, Marseille, following a series of disappointing results. His early departure fueled speculation about internal conflicts and dissatisfaction within the squad.