The Gabonese government dismisses Aubameyang and dissolves Panthers squad after poor Africa Cup of Nations exit.

In an unprecedented step, Gabon's authorities have declared the temporary dissolution of the Panthers squad, the termination of the coaching staff, and the exclusion of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from the team.

This drastic action comes after the team's last-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they lost all three matches.

“In light of the Panthers’ shameful showing at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dissolve the coaching staff, disband the national team for now, and remove players the two veteran players,” said acting sports minister Simplice-Désiré Mamboula.

A Campaign of Frustration

Coached by former defender Thierry Mouyouma, Gabon were already out after falling in their opening pair of Group F contests to their group rivals.

In their concluding fixture, the Panthers surprisingly led over title holders Côte d’Ivoire before conceding three goals to a rotated Ivorian lineup, eventually losing 3-2 defeat in Marrakech.

Key Figures Absent

Neither Aubameyang nor the experienced centre-back Bruno Ecuele Manga took part in the last game.

The former African Footballer of the Year Aubameyang had gone back to his club, Marseille, for recovery from a leg problem.

Answering to the announcement on social media, Aubameyang stated the issues ran beyond any individual: “I think the team’s problems are far more profound than the person I am.”

At 36 and 37 years old respectively, the defeat by Mozambique may have been the last game for the two veterans, Ecuele Manga.

An Uncommon Action in Contemporary Soccer

Suspending a national side was once a common reaction in Africa to poor performances.

However, since FIFA, football’s world authority, has taken a hard stance against political meddling in football associations, such moves have become a rare occurrence in today's football landscape.