Cameroon’s football scene is embroiled in turmoil as tensions escalate between the Minister of Sports and Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot), following the contentious appointment of Marc Brys as coach.
Despite Marc Brys’ official induction on Monday and appeals from the newly appointed coach to Eto’o, the former football star has remained unresponsive.
In response, the Ministry of Sports has issued a clear message to Eto’o through an upcoming meeting between Fecafoot and Minister Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, scheduled for Thursday at the prime minister’s office.
Observers have expressed hope for reconciliation or an amicable resolution between the two parties involved in Cameroonian football.
Failure to resolve the conflict could lead to an unprecedented situation, with conflicting coaching frameworks within the national team.
Fecafoot has demanded Eto’o to select his own staff independently from Brys’ appointments.
Commenting on the situation, a former Fecafoot member, speaking on condition of anonymity, described Eto’o’s actions as “almost suicidal.”
The former Barcelona star, known for his strong character, risks undermining his position by persisting in the conflict with the state. Cyrille Tollo, technical advisor to the Minister of Sports, cautioned that appointing another coach would signal a breach of trust with the state.
“We continue to believe that he loves his country, that he respects its institutions, and that he will return to better feelings,” added Tollo, urging Eto’o to reconsider his stance.
The standoff underscores broader tensions within Cameroonian football, highlighting the delicate balance between football administration and government oversight.
As stakeholders await the outcome of the meeting, the future direction of Cameroon’s football landscape remains uncertain.
Au Cameroun, la fédération de football veut nommer un autre sélectionneur que celui choisi par l’Etat https://t.co/ACq3lGbRGu
— Le Monde Afrique (@LeMonde_Afrique) April 10, 2024
