Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang announces retirement from Gabon national team

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has announced his intention to stop playing for the Gabon national team. The Panthers captain links the decision to the aftermath of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Gabon were eliminated in the group stage.

In an interview relayed by Dakaractu, the forward said he felt humiliated by his exclusion and then by his reinstatement. He also disputes being held solely responsible for the national team’s failure, arguing that the team’s difficulties go beyond his personal situation.

Elimination followed by sanctions

Gabon ended their group-stage campaign with three defeats, including a 3-2 loss to Côte d’Ivoire. After the elimination, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema said that part of the national identity had been weakened.

According to Dakaractu, the Gabonese government subsequently dissolved the technical staff, suspended the national team until further notice, and sidelined Aubameyang as well as Bruno Ecuele Manga. The exclusion of the two experienced players sparked outraged reactions among Gabonese supporters.

A challenge for the new coach

Aubameyang’s announced retirement poses a challenge for Sébastien Migné, presented as the new national coach. The Gabon national team must prepare for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

Absent from the 2026 World Cup, Gabon are targeting qualification for the next Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from 19 June to 17 July 2027 in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.

A new club in Spain

At club level, the forward left Olympique de Marseille to join Deportivo La Corogne, who have returned to the Spanish top flight. Dakaractu reports that he has already scored three goals for his new club.