Ambroise Oyongo’s participation in his first Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon has taken an unexpected turn behind the scenes. While preparing for a crucial Group D clash against Côte d’Ivoire, the defender learned he had been traded from New York Red Bulls to Montreal Impact—without prior notice or his consent.
🏟️ What happened?
Oyongo, a rising star who impressed during his first MLS season, was sent to Montreal as part of a deal to acquire Brazilian midfielder Felipe Martins. The move, orchestrated by New York Red Bulls, caught both the player and his entourage completely off guard.
📣 His agent, Nicolas Onissé, voiced strong criticism, saying:
“The team manager called to say the player had just been ‘traded’ to Montreal—the complete opposite of what was agreed upon in December. Neither Ambroise nor his entourage were informed… The day before a crucial CAN match. Depressing.”
He added a sharp warning to other players:
“Players who sign in MLS must know they are no longer in control of their careers.”
⚠️ European interest ignored?
This move is even more controversial because Oyongo was being courted by clubs like Lille, Wolfsburg, and Everton. His performances had drawn significant attention, and a European transfer seemed likely—until the Red Bulls’ MLS trade decision blocked other options.
⚽ On the field, Oyongo remains focused. Cameroon will face Ivory Coast tonight in a must-win game, aiming to book their spot in the quarter-finals of the 2015 AFCON. For the young defender, it’s a moment of both professional pride and personal turmoil.
The situation highlights a growing concern among international players in MLS: club-controlled trades without player input can clash hard with professional ambitions—especially during high-stakes tournaments.