Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Retires from Gabon National Team After Claiming Government “Humiliated” Him

The 37-year-old forward, who recently transferred to Spanish club Deportivo La Coruña, delivered the announcement in a televised interview. Aubameyang stated that government criticism following the team’s group-stage elimination in Morocco crossed a line. According to the article, Aubameyang said, »Sie haben mich gedemütigt und diffamiert, obwohl ich bei der Afrikameisterschaft trotz einer Verletzung gespielt habe« (They humiliated and defamed me, even though I played at the Africa Cup of Nations despite an injury).

The former Borussia Dortmund striker added, »Das ist der letzte Tropfen, der das Fass zum Überlaufen bringt, und ich höre lieber hier auf« (That is the last drop that makes the cup run over, and I prefer to stop here).

Government Sanctions and Squad Suspension

The fallout from Gabon’s winless run at the continental tournament in December triggered sweeping disciplinary measures from the nation’s leadership. Under President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the national government intervened directly in the wake of three group-stage defeats.

According to the article, the administration dismissed the entire coaching staff, placed the national team under an indefinite suspension, and excluded both Aubameyang and 38-year-old defender Bruno Ecuele Manga from the player pool.

Aubameyang addressed the broader structural issues within Gabonese football during his remarks. As reported, he noted, »Ich glaube, die Probleme der Mannschaft reichen viel tiefer als meine bescheidene Person« (I believe the team’s problems run much deeper than my humble person).

Upcoming Fixtures and Qualification Challenges

Gabon is scheduled to compete in the upcoming qualifiers for the next Africa Cup of Nations.

In the qualification draw, Gabon is slated to face Morocco, Niger, and Lesotho.