The search for a successor to Thierry Mouyouma as head coach of the Gabonese national team has generated exceptional interest. The Gabonese Football Federation (Fégafoot) has received no fewer than 605 applications following its call for applications to recruit a new coach for the Panthers.

According to an official statement released today, the majority of applications come from European technicians, proof of the attractiveness of the position despite the delicate sporting context that Gabonese football is going through.

This move follows the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a competition in which Gabon suffered three defeats in as many matches, exiting the tournament prematurely in the group stage. This resounding failure initially led the authorities to announce the dissolution of the national team and the suspension of star players Aubameyang and Ecuellé Manga, before they reversed their decision.

Following this crisis, several recommendations were made to the Minister of Sports, including the need to conduct a thorough search for a new coach capable of revitalizing the Gabonese national team. These guidelines were then passed on to the Gabonese Football Federation (Fégafoot), which officially launched the recruitment process.

The review of applications will begin this Tuesday, February 4th, and will continue until February 10th. The Fégafoot executive committee will be supported by several specialized bodies, including the National Technical Directorate, the Association of Educators and Coaches, and the Association of Clubs.

Following this evaluation phase, a shortlist of three candidates will be submitted to the ministerial authority for final approval. The future coach will be required to propose an ambitious project, focused on rebuilding and competitiveness, in order to sustainably reposition the Gabonese Panthers on the continental stage.