Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana has spoken candidly about the differences between the national team’s current coach, Marc Brys, and his predecessor, Rigobert Song, while emphasizing his dedication to the Indomitable Lions and the importance of team unity.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Omnisports Stadium in Garoua on Friday, September 6, 2024, Onana appeared composed and confident as he addressed several topics concerning the team.
He began by expressing his respect and admiration for Rigobert Song, the former coach of the Indomitable Lions.
Onana made it clear that his relationship with Song had always been positive, underscoring the strong bond he felt with the former captain and coach.
“I have always maintained very good relations with Rigobert Song,” he said, paying tribute to a figure who has left a lasting impact on Cameroonian football.
The discussion then shifted to the current state of the team under Belgian coach Marc Brys, who took over the reins of the Indomitable Lions.
Onana highlighted Brys’ authoritative approach, asserting that the coach’s decisions are respected without question by the players.
“As players, we have no problem with the match venues. We respect the hierarchy,” Onana stated, making it clear that the team follows the coach’s directives with complete loyalty.
“When we are told to go to Garoua, we come and we are happy to do so. It is not up to us to choose where we want to play; we follow the coach’s decisions.”
Onana’s remarks also touched on the importance of leadership within the team, emphasizing that Brys is firmly in charge of the squad.
“Hierarchically, our leader is the coach. As players, we follow Marc Brys without bias.
For us, the most important thing is to play for Cameroon,” he explained, reflecting the sense of discipline and commitment that the players share under Brys’ leadership.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper, who currently plays for Manchester United, also addressed the broader atmosphere surrounding the team, acknowledging that there has been a lot of speculation and misinformation circulating in the media.
However, he dismissed these distractions, focusing instead on the unity and professionalism of the squad. “A lot of things are said, but I am used to it.
There is a lot of manipulation and misinformation. Tomorrow, we will prove that we are professionals. What matters most is the unity of the group,” Onana concluded.
Onana’s comments come at a crucial time as the Indomitable Lions prepare for their upcoming fixtures in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
His words reflect not only his personal commitment to the team but also the collective resolve of the players to perform at their best, regardless of external pressures or changes in leadership.
🔴 André Onana : « Vous savez avec Rigobert Song j’avais de très bons rapports […] Avec lui c’était bien. Avec Marc Brys les rapports sont au beau fixe on a plus de possessions et moi c’est mon style de jeu et j’aime ça. Il y a beaucoup de choses que je pourrais dire mais ce… pic.twitter.com/8y4F4GReIB
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) September 6, 2024
