'Best player in history of Gabonese football' - Panthers coach lauds Aubameyang before Nigeria clash

Gabon coach Thierry Mouyouma has labelled Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang the best player in the history of Gabonese football ahead of his team's 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff match with the Super Eagles in Rabat.

The veteran attacker returned to Marseille during the summer transfer window after a stint in Saudi Arabia and has caught the eye with consistent displays in Ligue 1 and on the international stage.

Aubameyang was in scintillating form during the qualifying campaign, scoring seven goals in five matches, including a stunning double brace in Gabon's thrilling 4-3 victory over The Gambia.

At club level, the former Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona forward has also been impressive, contributing five goals and six assists in fourteen appearances for Marseille this season.

Voted African Footballer of the Year in 2015, Aubameyang has already reported for international duty and was spotted training with his teammates in Ziaïda, Morocco, on Tuesday.

"Pierre-Emerick is 36, but I feel like he's getting better with age," Mouyouma said to Afrik Foot. 

"He's been one of the best African players for over ten years. He came back to Marseille after a season in Saudi Arabia, and he's performing well. 

"With the national team, it’s not just his goals that stand out. His attitude is excellent. 

"He's a competitor, and when I met with him after my appointment to convince him to come back, I also emphasised the leadership role he would play."

The Gabonese tactician went on to underline Aubameyang's  influence on the national team, both on and off the pitch.

"He's the best player in the history of Gabonese football. He's a key figure, he lifts the team," Mouyouma added.

Aubameyang, who briefly retired from international duty in 2022 before making a return under Mouyouma, is Gabon's all-time top scorer with 39 goals in 83 matches. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: Fegafoot 

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