French-Cameroonian Pierre Ekwah open to representing Cameroon despite focus on club duties

Saint-Etienne midfielder Pierre Ekwah has expressed openness to the idea of representing Cameroon at the international level, though he remains firmly focused on his current commitments in France.

The 23-year-old, who is on loan at Saint-Etienne from English Championship side Sunderland, revealed his deep connection to his Cameroonian roots and his willingness to consider an international call-up if the opportunity arises.

Despite previously representing France at the U20 level, Ekwah has yet to receive any formal approach from Cameroon’s national team.

“I am very close to Cameroon and, unfortunately, because of certain situations when I was younger, I couldn’t visit the country,” Ekwah said. “My parents are from there, my whole family is from there, and I still have relatives living there.

I am very connected to my parents’ roots and grew up with this dual culture. It’s something I cherish. When I have the opportunity, I will gladly visit this beautiful country.”

Born and raised in the suburbs south of Paris, Ekwah’s football journey began in France before moving to England in 2018, where he joined Chelsea’s youth academy.

His career later took him to West Ham United before securing a move to Sunderland, and now, his loan spell at Saint-Etienne has provided a platform to showcase his growing talent in Ligue 2.

While Ekwah acknowledges the possibility of representing Cameroon, he was clear that no formal discussions have taken place. “I never really asked myself the question [of playing for Cameroon],” he admitted.

“I was never offered, and nothing came to me from one side or the other. Right now, my focus is on the current season with Saint-Etienne. I’m not thinking about the national team at all.”

Ekwah has been an influential figure for Saint-Etienne this season, making 19 appearances and scoring one goal.

Known for his composure on the ball and tactical awareness in midfield, the defensive midfielder has become a key asset as Saint-Etienne pushes for promotion back to Ligue 1.

However, his international future remains a subject of interest, especially given Cameroon’s history of integrating players from the diaspora.

The Indomitable Lions have previously strengthened their squad by welcoming players with dual nationality, and Ekwah could be seen as a valuable addition, especially with his European experience.

For now, though, Ekwah is prioritizing his club ambitions. Saint-Etienne’s fight for promotion requires full concentration, and the midfielder is determined to play his part in helping the club achieve its objectives before considering any international prospects.

“My focus is entirely on helping Saint-Etienne succeed this season,” he reiterated. “Whatever happens in the future regarding the national team, I will think about it when the time comes.”

As the season progresses, Ekwah’s performances will undoubtedly continue to draw attention from national team scouts.

Whether he eventually dons the green jersey of Cameroon remains to be seen, but his recent comments have certainly left the door open for the possibility.