Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will miss Gabon’s opening Africa Cup of Nations match against Cameroon on December 24 after picking up an injury with Marseille.
The 36-year-old striker was forced off during Marseille’s recent win over Monaco, sparking fears he might miss the entire tournament.
However, scans have since allayed those concerns, confirming the injury is not long-term.
Aubameyang will remain in France to undergo rehabilitation before flying out to join the national squad in Morocco.
Head coach Thierry Mouyouma hopes to have his captain back for the remaining Group F fixtures against Mozambique and Ivory Coast.
With the nation’s all-time top scorer (38 goals) sidelined, the attacking burden shifts to LAFC star Denis Bouanga.
Despite the setback, the Panthers’ 28-man squad remains experienced, featuring veterans Mario Lemina and Bruno Ecuele Manga.
Gabon must now navigate a “tricky” group stage without their talisman for the vital first kickoff.
