By Olayiwola Mercy
The Gabon government has suspended the national team and banned star players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga following their disappointing exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. The team finished last in Group F with three defeats, including a 3-2 loss to Ivory Coast despite leading 2-0 .
The government’s decision was announced by Acting Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula, citing the team’s “disgraceful performance” as contrary to the values of the Fifth Republic. The coaching staff, led by Thierry Mouyouma, has been dissolved, and the national team is suspended until further notice.
Aubameyang, Gabon’s all-time top scorer with 41 goals, had returned to Marseille with a thigh injury before the final group game. Ecuele Manga, the most capped player with 105 appearances, was also dropped for the Ivory Coast match. Both players are banned from future national team selections.
The government’s intervention may attract sanctions from FIFA, which prohibits government interference in football associations. The Gabonese Football Federation is urged to assume its responsibilities.
President Brice Oligui Nguema criticized the team’s performance, citing a “lack of method and dispersion of resources.” He promised “strong and structural decisions” to restore discipline in Gabon’s football governance.
The suspension is a rare move in African football, reflecting the government’s frustration with the team’s poor showing.
