Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Retires from the Gabon National Team
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has announced his retirement from international football with Gabon at the age of 37. The veteran striker made the decision shortly after making an impressive start to the new season with Deportivo, scoring three goals in his first three appearances.
Aubameyang’s international career ended following a turbulent period surrounding Gabon’s participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The forward explained that criticism from the Gabonese government played a major role in his decision. According to Aubameyang, he was publicly blamed and criticized for representing the national team despite suffering from an injury during the tournament.
“I was humiliated and my image was damaged because I played at the Africa Cup of Nations while injured,” Aubameyang said. “That was the final straw. I prefer to leave the matter behind.”
Gabon finished the tournament without a point
Gabon endured a disappointing campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, losing all three of its group-stage matches. The team finished the competition without earning a single point, prompting major changes within the national setup.
Following the poor results, the Gabonese government dismissed the coaching staff and appointed Sebastien Migne as the new head coach. The national team was also suspended until further notice as officials began reviewing the federation’s structure and sporting performance.
The authorities attributed much of the tournament failure to several experienced players, including Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga. However, Aubameyang rejected the suggestion that the team’s problems were primarily linked to his contribution.
“I believe the problems of the national team go far beyond the limited role I played,” the striker stated. His comments made clear that he did not accept personal responsibility for the wider crisis surrounding Gabonese football.
A long international career comes to an end
Aubameyang has been one of Gabon’s most recognizable footballers for more than a decade. His speed, finishing ability and leadership made him the central figure of the national team for many years. He also became one of the country’s most successful goalscorers and a key source of inspiration for younger players.
Although Gabon never achieved a major international title during Aubameyang’s era, the striker helped the country remain competitive at continental level. His presence attracted global attention and raised the profile of Gabonese football, particularly during his successful spells with leading European clubs.
The decision to retire means that Gabon will now have to build a new attacking identity without its most established forward. The coaching staff may be forced to give greater responsibility to younger players, while the team’s tactical approach could also change significantly.
Focus shifts to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations
Gabon failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, making the next Africa Cup of Nations the country’s most important upcoming objective. The 2027 tournament is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17 in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
The competition will provide Gabon with an opportunity to rebuild after a difficult period. The national team must first restore stability at administrative and coaching levels before focusing on qualification and tournament preparation.
Aubameyang’s departure could accelerate a generational transition. While his experience will be difficult to replace, Gabon may use the change to create a more balanced squad and develop emerging talents. Establishing a clear long-term plan will be essential if the team hopes to return to the continental stage with stronger performances.
For Aubameyang, meanwhile, the priority is now his club career. His productive start with Deportivo suggests that he remains capable of making a considerable impact despite his age. With three goals in three matches, he has already shown that his goalscoring instincts and attacking quality remain intact.
The retirement also closes one of the most significant chapters in Gabonese football. Aubameyang leaves the national team after years of carrying high expectations, but his final memories will be shaped by the controversy surrounding the 2025 tournament. His future will now be defined by his performances at club level rather than by the ongoing challenges of Gabon’s national setup.