Gabon captain and Barcelona striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has retired from international football, two weeks before the start of the 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The 32-year-old made a total of 68 appearances for the Panthers and scored 29 goals, making him the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer.

The Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot) said it had received a letter from Aubameyang announcing its decision.

“After 13 years of representing my country with pride, I want to tell you that I am ending my international career,” the former Arsenal star wrote.

“I want to thank the Gabonese people and all those who have supported me in good times and bad.

“I will always have great memories like the day I made my debut, or the day I came back from Nigeria with the African Player of the Year award. Sharing it with everyone is a memorable moment.

“I want to thank my father for making me want to be like him and I hope I made him proud to wear our colors.”