Édouard Mendy slams CAF governance, calls for urgent overhaul after AFCON fallout

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has launched a scathing critique of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), describing the continent’s football authority as “flawed” and in urgent need of reform following the controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking to the media on Saturday before their friendly game against Peru in Paris, Mendy did not hold back in his assessment of CAF’s leadership, suggesting the institution has failed to keep pace with the rapid progress of African football on the global stage.

“I am not surprised, coming from an institution like the CAF, which unfortunately does not move forward as fast as its football does. The people involved in this sport in Africa give their best every day, all around the world, to put African football at the highest level of world football,” the former Chelsea goalkeeper said.

The former African champion goalkeeper drew a stark contrast between the dedication of players and stakeholders and what he perceives as inefficiency at the administrative level.

According to Mendy, a select few individuals continue to wield disproportionate influence over key decisions affecting the game across the continent.

“Unfortunately, there is a small group of people who decide the fate of our sport on this continent. People who are simply not up to the task for several reasons. This is not only since the Africa Cup (2025).”

His remarks come amid heightened tensions following CAF’s controversial decisions surrounding the recent AFCON tournament, which have drawn criticism from several quarters within African football.

For Mendy, the events tied to the competition represent a breaking point.

“Let’s say this AFCON was the final straw. It is clear that in the coming weeks or months, this institution will have to question itself and carry out a clear overhaul. Today, it is a flawed institution that governs us and does not put us in the best conditions in the eyes of the world.”

The 32-year-old concluded with a damning verdict on the current state of governance, warning that the credibility of African football is at stake if meaningful changes are not implemented.

“Today, it is a flawed institution that governs us and does not put us in the best conditions in the eyes of the world.”

Mendy’s comments are likely to intensify scrutiny on CAF’s leadership, as pressure mounts for structural reforms to align the administration of the game with the growing stature and success of African football globally.

Meanwhile, Senegal has filed an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) following the ruling of the Appeal Board to strip of the AFCON title.