AFCON: Gabon FA confirms Aubameyang suspension lifted

In a turn of events, Gabon Football Association has announced government measures on the national team and striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have been lifted after its early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The former Arsenal captain alongside captain alongside captain Bruno Ecuélé Manga were reportedly suspended indefinitely from the Gabon national team alongside following a disappointing AFCON campaign.

Gabon’s acting Minister of Sports Dr. Simplice Désiré Mamboula announced the punishment of Aubameyang and defender Manga a few days after the team had returned home. He reacted swiftly to the national team’s three consecutive Group F defeats at the hands of Cameroon (1-0), Mozambique (3-2) and Ivory Coast (3-2).

Ministry highlights urgency of upcoming deadline

However, the same Ministry has changed the decision and lifted the suspensions according to a statement from the Gabon FA.

“The government measures suspending the national team have been lifted, as well as the exclusion of players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga following the unsatisfactory results of the national team at the Africa Cup of Nations,” read part of the statement issued by the Gabon FA on Tuesday.

“The Minister of Sports Paul Ulrich Kessany highlighted the urgency of upcoming deadlines, notably the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.”

The Ministry of Sports further invited FEGAFOOT to take the necessary steps to present all the practical arrangements for the appointment of a new technical staff.

The decision from the government was likely land the country in hot soup with FIFA that does not entertain political interference in football.