Cameroonian football icon Samuel Eto’o has expressed his delight following his election to the executive committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), marking another milestone in his post-playing career.
The former striker, who currently serves as president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot), secured his seat on CAF’s decision-making body last Wednesday after a legal battle with the organization.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) had ruled in his favor after his candidacy was initially invalidated.
As a result, Eto’o will represent the Union of Central African Football Federations (UNIFFAC) within CAF’s leadership for the next four years.
His appointment further strengthens his influence in African football administration, following a career that saw him win the Africa Cup of Nations twice (2000, 2002) and claim the African Player of the Year award on four occasions (2003, 2004, 2005, 2010).
“A Childhood Dream Fulfilled”
Despite a tenure at Fecafoot marred by controversy, Eto’o remains focused on his ambitions in football governance. Speaking to TV5 Monde, the former Barcelona and Inter Milan star described his election as the fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration.
“It’s a childhood dream. I always wanted to serve football, first as a player on the pitch and now as an administrator,” he said. “For any leader, the ambition is to contribute at CAF’s level. I am grateful to my peers who placed their trust in me.
My victories are always hard-fought, which makes them even more satisfying. When I believe in an idea that benefits the majority, I pursue it relentlessly.”
Commitment to Collaboration with Motsepe
Eto’o’s election places him within an organization led by CAF president Patrice Motsepe, whose camp has not always been aligned with the Cameroonian’s assertive approach. However, the Fecafoot president made it clear that he is committed to working alongside Motsepe to advance African football.
“I am not elected as CAF president but as a member of the executive committee under President Motsepe’s leadership,” Eto’o stated. “What matters is that I am always ready to contribute solutions in line with his vision. Like me, many others are passionate about seeing African football reach new heights, and I am confident that together, under his leadership, we will achieve great things.”
Eto’o’s rise in football administration continues to draw attention, and his influence within CAF could prove instrumental in shaping the future of the sport on the continent.
