Table of Contents
- Disarray in Gabon Football
- Gabon’s Tournament Performance
- Government Response
- Coaching Change and Future Uncertainty
- Player Updates
Gabon is in turmoil following their exit from the Africa Cup of Nations, exacerbated by the government's decision to dismiss the coaching staff and suspend several squad members, only to later reverse some of those actions.
The Panthers had a disappointing tournament, losing matches against Cameroon, Mozambique, and the Ivory Coast.
Gabon was eliminated early from the Africa Cup of NationsCredit: AFP
The government expressed frustration after failing to earn any points in the tournamentCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker was granted permission to return to French giants Marseille.
Gabon had already been eliminated from advancing to the knockout stage before relinquishing a two-goal lead in their 3-2 defeat to the Ivory Coast.
The government issued a statement criticizing the coaches and the entire team, which has since been retracted.
The statement read: “The government has decided to dissolve the technical staff and suspend the national team until further notice, and to exclude players Bruno Ecuele Manga and others.”
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Gabon’s president, also condemned the players for failing to secure a single point at AFCON.
In a cabinet meeting prior to the loss against the Ivory Coast, where Aston Villa striker was among the goalscorers, he remarked: “A part of our national identity is being weakened.”
Oligui further stated that the national team “exposes two significant issues that reveal ongoing structural deficiencies: a lack of strategy and the misallocation of resources.”
Former defender Thierry Mouyouma had been leading Gabon since November 2023 but now faces uncertainty regarding his future.
Aubameyang, who was pivotal during the early days of manager Mikel Arteta’s tenure, has earned 83 caps.
The striker arrived at AFCON after contributing to 18 goals in 20 appearances for Marseille this season. He returned to the Orange Velodrome for a second stint after leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah during the summer.
Manga, also named among the excluded squad members by the government, previously had a five-year tenure in the league.
The 37-year-old center-back is currently playing in France’s third tier with Paris 13 Atletico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Gabon's disarray after the Africa Cup of Nations?
Gabon faced disarray after their exit from the tournament when the government sacked the coaching staff and suspended players, only to later retract some decisions.
How did Gabon perform in the tournament?
Gabon had a poor performance, losing all their matches against Cameroon, Mozambique, and the Ivory Coast without securing any points.
What were the government's comments on Gabon's performance?
The government criticized the team and coaches, stating that the national identity is being weakened and highlighted structural deficiencies within the team.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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