Johnson Progress

Cameroon is embroiled in a heated controversy ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as two different squads have been submitted by the country’s Football Federation (FECAFOOT) and coach Marc Brys.

The dispute centers around FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o, who has reportedly named his own squad, excluding star players like Andre Onana and Vincent Aboubakar.

According to reports, Eto’o’s squad, led by new coach David Pagou, was announced on December 1, omitting Onana, Aboubakar, and other experienced players.

However, Brys, who claims he was not officially sacked, has submitted his own squad, which includes Onana and Aboubakar.

“As long as there is no signed note from the Presidency of the Republic appointing David Pagou as the coach of the Indomitable Lions, in the eyes of the State of Cameroon, Mr Marc Brys remains,” Brys said in an interview.

Brys has accused Eto’o of being “narcissistic” and prioritizing his own interests over the team.

“It’s always been Eto’o’s goal to get me out as quickly as possible,” Brys said.

“From the very first minute, he insulted me, and I reacted. I was too much of a competitor for him.”

The controversy has sparked concerns about the team’s preparation for the AFCON, which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco.

Cameroon’s first match is against Gabon on December 24.

The country’s government has reportedly intervened, with officials holding talks with FECAFOOT representatives to resolve the issue.

Eto’o, a former Barcelona and Chelsea striker, has been accused of dropping Aboubakar to protect his record as Cameroon’s all-time top scorer with 56 goals. Aboubakar currently has 45 goals and is just 12 goals away from surpassing Eto’o’s record.

The situation remains uncertain, with both squads claiming legitimacy.

The outcome will likely have significant implications for Cameroon’s AFCON campaign and the future of the country’s football federation.