The Gabonese government has suspended its national football team and banned star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following a “disgraceful” exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula announced the drastic measures on Friday, following a bottom-of-the-group finish in Morocco.
The “Panthers” are suspended from competition until further notice. Manager Thierry Mouyouma has been dismissed after two years in charge.
Both Aubameyang and veteran defender Bruno Ecuele Manga have been officially excluded.
Gabon’s campaign ended with a 3-2 loss to Côte d’Ivoire on December 31, a match in which the team blew a two-goal lead.
Aubameyang, who missed the final game due to injury, responded by stating, “The team’s problems are much deeper than the individual I am.”
The move puts Gabon at risk of a FIFA ban, as the world governing body strictly prohibits government interference in national football associations.
