Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has decided to reverse his retirement from international football and make a comeback to the Gabon national team, a year after his initial announcement.
The 33-year-old had previously retired as Gabon’s all-time leading goal scorer, boasting an impressive record of 28 goals in 68 appearances, back in May 2022.
Aubameyang revealed that his change of heart was prompted by a meeting with Gabon’s president, Ali Bongo Ondimba, which left a profound impact on him.
Taking to Instagram, he shared a heartfelt statement where he expressed gratitude for the president’s guidance, which resonated with him on a paternal level. Aubameyang wrote: “(I) listened to the wise words he said to me as a father talking to his son.”
Under the stewardship of former La Rochelle defender Patrice Neveu, Gabon is currently leading their group in the qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
With their next match against the Democratic Republic of Congo in June, they have the opportunity to secure their place in the tournament, which is scheduled to be held in Ivory Coast in January next year.
Aubameyang’s Instagram post further highlighted the immense honor he felt after being received by President Ali Bongo Ondimba.
As a result, he pledged his commitment to his country and made himself available for selection, stating, “Following this statement, I therefore put myself at the disposal of my country and of the coach Patrice Neveu.”
Born in France, the French-born forward has faced a series of challenges in recent club campaigns, including losing the captaincy at Arsenal in December 2021 before making a move to Barcelona during the subsequent transfer window.
Despite these setbacks, Aubameyang’s passion for representing his nation has reignited, and he is eager to contribute to the Gabon national team once again.