Gabon Government Takes Drastic Action Following AFCON Disappointment

The Gabonese government has implemented severe measures against the national football team following their disappointing performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This includes suspending the entire team’s selection, with the exception of star player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, as well as dismissing head coach Thierry Mouyouma along with his entire coaching staff.

Gabon was the second team to be eliminated from this year’s AFCON in Morocco, suffering consecutive defeats in their initial matches. They lost 1-0 to regional rivals Cameroon and followed this with a 3-2 defeat to Mozambique, a team considered an underdog.

Their lackluster campaign continued with yet another loss, this time against defending champions Ivory Coast. Despite taking a 2-0 lead, Gabon ultimately succumbed to a 3-2 defeat, thus missing out on a potential opportunity for redemption.

In light of these results, the Gabonese government reacted decisively, announcing a series of actions via a televised communication. Minister of Sports Simplice-Desire Mamboula stated, “Considering the multifaceted effects, which contradict the ethical and exemplary values upheld by the Fifth Republic, the government has decided to dissolve the technical staff, suspend the national team until further notice, and exclude players Bruno Ecuélé Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.”

The statement further urged the Gabonese Football Federation to assume full responsibility for the situation.

Aubameyang, who had previously returned from international retirement to lead the national team, expressed his thoughts on Twitter, stating, “I think the team’s problems are far deeper than the little person who I am.”

Shortly after the announcement, it appeared that the government may reconsider its statements, raising questions about the future implementation of the outlined measures. FIFA regulations prohibit governmental interference in the operations of national football associations, which could potentially lead to repercussions for Gabon. It remains uncertain whether this marks the end of Aubameyang’s international career.

Beyond the disappointing results on the pitch, Gabon’s AFCON journey was marred by additional challenges, including disagreements between Marseille and FEGAFOOT regarding Aubameyang’s fitness management, as well as domestic criticism concerning the coach’s tactics.

Mouyouma expressed his frustration with external influences, stating, “This contempt must stop. We are playing in an Africa Cup of Nations, not a recovery camp. The player was tested, examined, and cleared by our medical staff and by the CAF medical commission. During FIFA dates, players belong to their countries. I simply ask for respect for our work, our decisions, and our ambitions.”

Gabon was one of three teams, alongside Botswana and Equatorial Guinea, to exit AFCON without securing a single point. ESPN has reached out to FEGAFOOT for further comments.