VETERAN striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will miss Gabon's first game at the Africa Cup of Nations next week but is expected to be fit again for their next two Group F matches in Morocco.
REUTERS / Yves Herman
The 36-year-old Aubameyang, who has been a key player for his country, had to leave the field injured during Olympique de Marseille's Ligue 1 match against AS Monaco on Sunday.
The Gabonese Football Federation confirmed that he will stay in France for treatment before rejoining the team.
A federation statement said, "Olympique de Marseille's medical team asked Aubameyang to receive treatment in Marseille after discussing with the national team's medical staff."
"The player is not available for the December 24 game against Cameroon.
Depending on his medical tests and imaging results, he might play in the December 28 match against Mozambique." Both matches will take place in Agadir.
Gabon, who will face defending champions Ivory Coast on December 31 in Marrakech, are also likely to make a change in defense.
Metz center-back Michel Mboula is doubtful for the tournament due to a thigh injury.