Aubameyang steps away from Gabon squad before Morocco qualifier

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has refused to continue playing for Gabon after claiming he was “insulted” and that his reputation was damaged following the team’s disappointing Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign.

The 37-year-old, who captains Gabon and is the country’s all-time leading scorer, said the way he was treated by officials after the tournament had led him to make the decision. He was initially left out of the squad before later being recalled.

Speaking in a television interview reported by French broadcaster RMC, Aubameyang said: “They insulted me and tarnished my image, even though I played in the Africa Cup of Nations while injured. That was the final straw, and I would rather stop here.”

His announcement comes shortly before Gabon are due to face Morocco on 23 September in the opening round of Group A in the qualifying competition for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027.

Aubameyang has been unhappy after being held partly responsible for Gabon’s failure at the 2025 tournament, which was hosted by Morocco. Gabon were eliminated in the group stage after losing all three of their matches, with their final defeat coming against Cote d’Ivoire, who won 3-2.

Following that campaign, Gabon’s president, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, said the results had weakened part of the country’s national identity. The government subsequently took several measures, including dissolving the coaching staff and suspending the national team’s activities until further notice.

Aubameyang and fellow experienced defender Bruno Ecuele Manga, 38, were also excluded from the squad.

The decision to remove both veteran players prompted anger among Gabon supporters. Aubameyang responded at the time by saying: “I think the problems of the national team are much deeper than my humble person.”

His withdrawal comes as he begins another chapter in European football. Aubameyang left Olympique de Marseille for a second time and joined Deportivo La Coruna, who have returned to Spain’s top flight after a lengthy absence.

The Gabon striker has already scored three goals for his new club at the start of his career in Spain.

New Gabon manager Sebastien Migne must now plan for the absence of the team’s captain as the country prepares for its next Africa Cup of Nations qualifying commitments.

Gabon missed out on the 2026 World Cup and will now make qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations its next major objective. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 19 June to 17 July.

Aubameyang’s decision leaves Migne without one of Gabon’s most experienced and recognisable players at a crucial stage for the national side, with the meeting against Morocco set to begin the team’s campaign in Group A.