AFCON 2025: Tensions between OM and Gabon on the Aubameyang case

 While AFCON 2025 is in full swing in Morocco, the case of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has become a real point of diplomatic and medical friction between OM and Gabon. At the origin of the dispute, the first group match of the Panthers against Cameroon. 

Suffering from a muscle alert in the thigh before the tournament, the OM striker had initially been announced forfeited and was subject to a strict recovery protocol negotiated upstream between the medical staffs of the two entities. The plan was clear: in the worst case scenario, Aubameyang should only walk on the lawn for a few symbolic minutes, while validating his recovery without taking risks.

Yet, under the pressure of the score, the Gabonese coach chose to ignore these recommendations. In the 33rd minute of play, «PEA» was launched into the arena, finally competing for nearly an hour of high-intensity physical combat.

On the side of Marseille, the pill does not pass. According to RMC Sports, the Phoenician management did not appreciate this management of their flagship striker this season and would have known it to the Gabonese side. While Gabon will face Mozambique this Sunday, Aubameyang has a good chance of starting the match given the need for Gabon to take points.