Gabon Government Suspends National Football Team and Star Players After Africa Cup of Nations Collapse in Morocco

In a stunning move, Gabon’s government has suspended its entire national football team following their disappointing exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The decision also included the ousting of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and veteran defender Bruno Ecuele Manga.

The announcement came directly from the country’s acting sports minister, Simplice-Desire Mamboula, who did not mince words, calling the team’s performance “disgraceful” during a live television address.

Government Blames Coaching and Players Alike

Mamboula made it clear that the blame extended beyond the players.

The coaching staff has been dissolved, and the Gabonese Football Federation has been urged to take full responsibility for the national team’s future.

“The government has decided to suspend the national team until further notice,” he stated, singling out both Aubameyang and Ecuele Manga in the fallout.

A Promising Start That Went Wrong

Gabon appeared to have a strong start in their Group F clash against Ivory Coast, leading 2-0 at halftime.

However, their second-half collapse saw them lose 3-2, finishing the tournament with three straight defeats.

The team’s disappointing performance added to the frustration of fans already reeling from Gabon’s failure to qualify for the World Cup.

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The Fate of the Veterans

Aubameyang, who has scored more goals for Gabon than any other player in history, had returned to Marseille with a thigh injury before the match against Ivory Coast.

He had featured in Gabon’s earlier AFCON defeats, scoring once against Mozambique and coming off the bench against Cameroon.

At 36, his international career appears to be over.

Similarly, Ecuele Manga, 37, is unlikely to represent Gabon again.

He had been omitted from the starting lineup against Ivory Coast by then-head coach Thierry Mayouma, who has now also left his position.

Historical Context and FIFA Rules

Gabon’s drastic decision is reminiscent of past incidents in African football, where governments would intervene directly in national teams.

However, FIFA has since worked to curb such actions.

In 2017, Mali faced suspension after its sports minister dissolved the national football association’s executive committee, highlighting the governing body’s commitment to protecting football’s autonomy.

Looking Ahead

With the national team on pause and veteran players potentially retired, Gabon now faces a critical period of rebuilding.

Fans and officials alike will be watching closely as the country navigates the fallout and looks to plan for the next chapter in its football journey.