Gabon’s football federation has lifted government-imposed measures on the national team, reinstating star players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga following the country’s early exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The decision comes after intense scrutiny and controversy over the team’s performance in Morocco, where Gabon failed to secure a win in Group F matches against Cameroon, Mozambique, and title holders Ivory Coast.

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Background: Government Suspension After AFCON Defeat

Following Gabon’s disappointing results at AFCON 2025, the Gabonese government intervened, announcing on national television the suspension of the national squad and the removal of key players Aubameyang and Manga.

Additionally, head coach Thierry Mouyouma and his entire coaching staff were fired, leaving the team without a permanent head coach. The measures prompted concerns about potential FIFA sanctions, as the organization strictly opposes government interference in football associations.

The suspension of players and the national team drew international attention, highlighting the tension between Gabon’s government and its football federation.

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Reinstatement of Key Players

On Monday, the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) issued a statement confirming the lifting of the suspension measures:

“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,” the statement read.

While the players have been reinstated, Mouyouma and his coaching staff remain dismissed. The federation emphasized the urgency of preparing for upcoming deadlines, including the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, as highlighted by Sports Minister Paul Ulrich Kessany.

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Gabon’s Performance at AFCON 2025

Gabon was placed in Group F, competing against:

• Cameroon
• Mozambique
• Ivory Coast (defending champions)

The team’s failure to secure a victory in any of these matches led to both government sanctions and internal restructuring within the football federation.

The early exit was considered a significant disappointment for Gabonese fans, who had high hopes for star forward Aubameyang and the national squad.

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Implications for FIFA and Future Tournaments

The initial suspension raised concerns about a possible FIFA sanction against Gabon. FIFA regulations strictly prohibit governmental interference in the operations of football associations, and violations can result in temporary suspension from international competition.

The reinstatement of the players and lifting of the national team suspension ensures that Gabon can continue to participate in international competitions without risking penalties from FIFA.

“The decision allows the Gabonese team to move forward while maintaining compliance with FIFA regulations,” said a FEGAFOOT spokesperson.

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Looking Ahead: Coaching and Team Rebuilding

Although the players have returned, Gabon continues its search for a new head coach to guide the team into future competitions, including qualifiers for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

FEGAFOOT officials emphasized the need for stability and strategic planning after the AFCON disappointment, with a focus on strengthening the squad, improving performance, and preparing for upcoming continental tournaments.

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Key Takeaways

• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga reinstated to Gabon national team.
• Head coach Thierry Mouyouma and coaching staff remain dismissed.
• Suspension lifted to avoid potential FIFA sanctions over government interference.
• Gabon aims to prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations and rebuild its national squad.
• AFCON 2025 early exit prompts team restructuring and leadership changes.