Gabon national team has been dissolved
The Ministry of Youth, Sports, Cultural Outreach and the Arts in Gabon has announced the official dissolution of the national team following their abysmal performances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Gabon endured a disastrous AFCON campaign, losing all three group-stage matches and failing to progress to the knockout stage as anticipated.
The team lost 1–0 to Cameroon, suffered a 3–2 defeat to Mozambique, and finally fell 3–2 to Cote d’Ivoire despite leading for most parts of the game, marking one of their worst outings ever.
In response to the poor performance, the government announced the dissolution of the entire technical staff and suspended the national team until further notice.
The sports ministry also noted that captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuellé Manga will be expelled from the national team, without specifying the reasons for the decision.
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“Given the dishonorable performance of the Panthers during the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, and considering the multifaceted effects that are the antithesis of the ethical and exemplary values promoted by the Fifth Republic, the Government has decided: to dissolve the technical staff; to suspend the National Team until further notice; and to remove players Bruno Ecuellé Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from the squad,” portions of the statement read.
However, it was stated that the football association will continue to play its role in managing affairs and making key decisions concerning the team.
“Furthermore, the Government calls upon the Gabonese Football Federation to assume its full responsibilities. Done in Libreville on January 1, 2026,” the statement added.
Read the statement in the post below:
🚨 OFFICIAL: Govt of 🇬🇦 Gabon disband men’s national team after “disgraceful performance” at #AFCON2025.
Capt Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre Aubameyang banned from representing the team.
However, statement silent on duration of suspension or when/how new team will be formed. pic.twitter.com/qcMdvwKWJd
— Gary Al-Smith (@garyalsmith) January 1, 2026
SB/AE
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