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The former Premier League star, who had the opportunity to play for a European nation turned down that chance to play at AFCON
Former Chelsea and Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who now plays for Olympique Marseille, could have pursued an international career with the French national team, having represented France at youth levels.
However, despite this opportunity, Aubameyang made the decision to represent Gabon at the senior level, a choice he credits to the influence of Ivorian football legend, Didier Drogba.
Drogba inspires Aubameyang to choose Gabon
In an interview with L'Equipe, Aubameyang revealed the pivotal role Drogba played in his decision to choose Africa over Europe.
Recalling his time in Dijon during the 2008-2009 season, Aubameyang reflected on watching a DVD chronicling Drogba's illustrious career, particularly his time at Olympique Marseille, saying, "Drogba… When I played in Dijon (2008-2009), I lived with my best friend and my mother, and a DVD was released on Drogba, his career, his time at OM,"
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"A DVD L'Equipe d'ailleurs [Didier Drogba, The Incredible Destiny, published in 2007]. I watched him over and over, I said to myself: 'It's crazy, he explodes at 30.
"At that time, I had to make my choice for Gabon. But in fact I didn't hesitate, it made me want to do the same thing, what he represented for his country, it was an incredible source of inspiration."
The DVD, titled "Didier Drogba, The Incredible Destiny," left a lasting impression on Aubameyang, inspiring him to follow in Drogba's footsteps and represent his home country, Gabon.
Aubameyang grateful to Drogba
Despite achieving remarkable success in his own right, Aubameyang remains humble and grateful for the influence Drogba had on his career. Speaking after being named the Best African Player in Ligue 1, Aubameyang expressed his admiration for Drogba and acknowledged him as a true legend of the game.
"I think there is no comparison possible: Drogba remains Drogba. It's a legend. Afterwards, I am very happy and very proud that people think about it. But we are two completely different players. He is the legend, and I want to continue writing my story," he said.
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"I had the opportunity to tell him that he was my idol when I was younger. I don't know if he realises it but he is someone who has inspired a lot of people around the world, particularly me, in my career and my African journey. He inspired a generation with his talent and his work."
Aubameyang has represented Gabon 75 times and is the country’s leading goalscorer with 30 goals, as well as its current captain. He has played at two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments with the Panthers.
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