Marseille Coach Defends Aubameyang After Gabon Exclusion

Olympique Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has defended his player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang following his exclusion from the Gabon national team squad after the team's exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.

De Zerbi stated, "We have never criticized him. Aside from being an exceptional player, we cannot criticize him personally. He left injured, having played against Monaco while suffering from leg pain. We sent a physiotherapist so he could receive treatment in Gabon." The coach added, "I also saw that there are disagreements with the Gabon coach, but that does not concern me."

De Zerbi confirmed that Aubameyang, who was released early from the national team due to injury, is now ready to participate in Olympique Marseille's upcoming Ligue 1 match. He said, "Today, he is better and can play on Sunday."

For its part, the Gabonese government justified the player's exclusion by referring to "the failure of its leaders," with President Nguema stating, "He is part of the national identity that is weakening." Aubameyang responded to this decision on the "X" platform, saying, "I believe the team's problems are much deeper than my small person."