The Gabonese government removes Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and suspends Panthers squad after ‘disgraceful’ Africa Cup of Nations exit.
In an unprecedented step, Gabon's authorities have revealed the indefinite suspension of the Panthers squad, the sacking of the team's coaches, and the expulsion of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from the team.
This radical decision comes following the team's group-stage exit at the continental championship in Morocco, where they were defeated in every game.
“Considering the Panthers’ shameful display at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dismiss the coaching staff, disband the national team indefinitely, and drop players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang,” stated acting sports minister Simplice-Désiré Mamboula.
The Tournament of Disappointment
Coached by former defender Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon had already been eliminated after suffering defeats in their first two of Group F games to Mozambique and Cameroon.
In their concluding fixture, the Panthers were 2-0 up over defending champions Côte d’Ivoire before surrendering their advantage to a second-string Ivorian lineup, eventually losing 3-2 defeat in Marrakech.
Veteran Players Missing
Both Aubameyang and the experienced centre-back Bruno Ecuele Manga took part in the last game.
The former African Footballer of the Year Aubameyang had gone back to his club, Marseille, for treatment on a leg problem.
Responding to the announcement on a social platform, Aubameyang stated the issues ran beyond any single player: “I think the team’s problems are far more profound than the individual I am.”
At 36 and thirty-seven years old each, the defeat by Mozambique likely marked the concluding game for the two veterans, Ecuele Manga.
A Drastic Action in Contemporary Soccer
Disbanding a national team was formerly a typical measure in Africa to tournament failures.
However, as FIFA, football’s international federation, has taken a hard stance against government interference in the sport's administration, such actions have become far less common in recent years.
