Cameroon’s football legend and head of Fecafoot, Samuel Eto’o, has raised eyebrows with claims of external interference in the selection of goalkeeper André Onana during the crucial match against Senegal.
Eto’o’s revelation unfolded during an executive committee meeting on Monday, where he proposed his resignation, a move that was ultimately rejected.
Journalist Boris Bertolt reported that Eto’o hinted at an external force, simply referred to as the ‘boss,’ influencing the decision to include Manchester United goalkeeper Onana in the national team.
While Eto’o refrained from explicitly naming the figure, speculation points to a potential involvement of President Paul Biya.
Expressing his disapproval, Eto’o conveyed that he would have excluded Onana from the national team had the decision rested solely on him.
This revelation sheds light on the complexities and internal tensions within the management of the team, exposing the challenges faced by Eto’o and the executive committee.
Reports suggest that Eto’o had informed the committee of his intention to resign on January 19, triggered by his dissatisfaction with Onana’s selection for the pivotal match against Senegal during AFCON 2023.
Eto’o, viewing this as an infringement on the technical and sporting independence of the federation, found the interference deeply troubling, prompting contemplation of stepping down from his esteemed position.
Further details emerged regarding a confrontation between Eto’o and Onana before the crucial match. The goalkeeper, having been excluded from the squad for the World Cup, sought accountability from Eto’o, accusing him of being the reason for his non-selection in Qatar.
This confrontation underscored the strained relationship between the football chief and the goalkeeper, casting a shadow over the future of the Indomitable Lions.
The unfolding drama within Cameroon’s football administration highlights the delicate balance between sporting autonomy and external influences, leaving fans and stakeholders eagerly awaiting the resolution of this internal strife.
🔴 Samuel Eto’o aurait fait savoir dès le 19 janvier dernier au comité exécutif qu’il souhaitait démissionner de son poste de président de la FECAFOOT.
L’ancien Capitaine des Lions indomptables aurait très mal vécu le fait qu’un membre du gouvernement impose la présence d’Andre… pic.twitter.com/1uIN3jzDMO
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) February 7, 2024
