The exclusion of Nchindo John Bosco, Cameroon’s newly crowned Ballon d’Or winner, from the national squad has sparked widespread debate. Head coach Marc Brys has addressed the controversy, but his justification has left many unconvinced.
When asked about the omission of the Yong Sports Academy striker from the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Eswatini and Libya, Brys responded with an unexpected remark:
“I don’t live here; I work here, and sometimes I’m not around. That means my assistants are responsible for monitoring the local league matches.”
This response has only intensified concerns over the integration of homegrown talent into the national team, a longstanding issue in Cameroonian football.
Was the Decision Justified?
Brys acknowledged that he had seen some footage of Nchindo but claimed the player struggled to adapt when previously called up.
“When he was with us, he didn’t fit in well and was too frustrated. I’m very happy he won the Cameroonian Ballon d’Or—it will boost his confidence, and that’s what he lacked.”
While some accept this explanation, arguing that the domestic league does not yet match international standards, others question the decision.
How can the best player in the country be overlooked while some overseas-based players with limited game time continue to receive call-ups?
The Role of Foreign Coaches in Africa
Brys’s remarks have reignited a broader discussion about the role of foreign managers in African football. Can a coach who does not reside in the country truly understand and nurture its footballing culture?
For many, it seems contradictory for a national team coach to operate from a distance while claiming to have a firm grasp of local talent. The debate is unlikely to subside anytime soon.
