Gabon hit by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang injury blow ahead of Africa Cup of Nations opener

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will miss Gabon’s opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Cameroon on December 24th.

The Olympique de Marseille striker suffered a hamstring injury during Marseille’s 1-0 win over Monaco and will remain in France to continue his recovery under medical supervision from both club and national team staff.

The 36-year-old forward could return for Gabon’s second group match against Mozambique on December 28th, depending on how his rehabilitation progresses.

His absence represents a major setback for Gabon, where he has been instrumental this season.

Aubameyang has featured in 20 of Marseille’s 22 matches across all competitions, contributing eight goals and ten assists, helping drive the club’s strong start to the campaign.

Gabonese officials noted that the injury may have been exacerbated by Aubameyang’s extensive playing time since the season began.

The coming days will be crucial in assessing whether he can rejoin his teammates later in the tournament.

The Panthers also face another setback as midfielder Michel Mboula remains sidelined with a left thigh injury.

The Metz player will continue his recovery at his club and has been replaced in the squad by Yannis M’Bemba, a defender from FC Dordrecht in the Dutch second division.

Gabon missed the last edition of the tournament but aims to match their 2021 performance, when they reached the round of 16.

Historically, the Panthers have never gone beyond the quarterfinals, with their most notable runs coming in 1996 and 2012.

With key players sidelined, Gabon will need to adjust quickly if they hope to challenge for a deeper run in this year’s competition.