As reported by Africa Top Sports this morning, a confrontation unfolded in the Indomitable Lions’ den between Samuel Eto’o and Stephane Mbia at the Caf Center of Excellence in Mbankomo.
This incident is not the first time that Samuel Eto’o has been involved in such tensions with a teammate. The current captain of the Lions previously experienced similar clashes with Achille Emana during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and with Alexandre Song during the CAN 2012 qualifiers. Questions arise as to whether Samuel Eto’o has become unwelcome in the team.
“It all began with Samuel’s (Eto’o fils, editor’s note) decision to live in isolation from the group. Some criticized this behavior, deeming it unfitting for a captain. Unhappy with the criticism and with Mbia adding to the tension, Eto’o lost his temper. A heated argument ensued between the two. Contrary to some reports, there was neither a physical altercation nor a punch,” reported one player who claims to have witnessed the incident. “The tension persisted until authorities and former team legends took the initiative to mediate and reconcile the parties involved,” explained a member of the technical staff.
Following this heated exchange, the team captain emerged from his isolation to join the group for a communal meal.
