Cameroon head coach Marc Brys has reignited tensions with Samuel Eto’o after making a blunt remark about the former footballer’s recent appointment to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Executive Committee.
During a press conference on Thursday, Brys unveiled his squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Eswatini and Libya.
However, when asked for his thoughts on Eto’o’s new role within CAF, the Belgian coach gave a sharp response that caught many by surprise.
“I’m not answering that. We’re here for the Lions’ roster. No one has congratulated me on qualifying for the next AFCON,” Brys told reporters, shifting the focus back to his team selection.
His comments have further fueled speculation of ongoing tensions between himself and Eto’o, the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT).
Eto’o, who had previously attempted to mend relations with the coach, now faces a fresh challenge following Brys’ pointed remark.
The strained relationship between the two has been a recurring issue within Cameroonian football, and this latest exchange is likely to deepen the divide.
The Indomitable Lions will resume their World Cup qualifying campaign with a match against Eswatini on March 19, followed by a clash with Libya on March 25. Cameroon currently tops Group D with eight points as they look to secure a place in the 2026 tournament.
▪️Journaliste : Avez-vous félicité Samuel Eto’o pour son entrée au COMEX de la CAF ?
▪️Marc Brys : « Je ne réponds pas à ça. Nous sommes là pour la liste des Lions. Personne ne m’a félicité pour les qualifications ». 🦁🇨🇲 pic.twitter.com/aYPYgKV4zz
— AllezLesLions (@AllezLesLions) March 13, 2025