The saga surrounding Emmanuel Adebayor’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) is quite eventful, and it’s interesting to see how the situation unfolded. Here’s a summary of the timeline:
November 2012: The Crisis
- Adebayor expressed frustration with the Togolese Football Federation (FFT), citing issues with unpaid camp travel bonuses.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of proper equipment, training jerseys, and transportation for the national team.
- Adebayor emphasized the need for change in the preparation and organization of the CAN, stating that under the current conditions, a successful campaign seemed unlikely.
January 8, 2013: The Resolution
- Adebayor met twice with the Togolese President, Faure Gnassingbé, to discuss the issues.
- The President assured Adebayor that he would take charge of the situation, leading to a positive resolution.
- Adebayor expressed his commitment to return to his club (Tottenham) initially but assured his availability for the CAN, stating that he does not refuse the appeal of the Head of State.
In the interview, Adebayor highlighted his dedication to Togolese football and his desire to see positive changes. He acknowledged that the President had assured him that the issues would be addressed, providing a more optimistic outlook for Togo’s participation in the CAN.
This development is significant not only for Adebayor but also for the Togolese national team and its prospects in the tournament. The episode reflects the complexities and challenges that can arise in international football, including the delicate balance between club and national team commitments.
