Cameroon’s preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have plunged into fresh turmoil. Star goalkeeper Andre Onana is notably absent from a significantly altered national squad. This major development comes just hours after head coach Marc Brys was dramatically dismissed.

Coach Marc Brys Sacked Amid Controversy

The Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), led by President Samuel Eto’o, announced Brys’s removal. This statement created a stir, following Eto’o’s recent re-election. FECAFOOT accused the Belgian coach of a “catalogue of professional failure.”

Allegations against Brys included inciting players. The federation claimed he challenged FECAFOOT’s authority. He was also accused of “active collaboration with unknown individuals” within the organization.

Brys received his appointment from the country’s sports ministry in April 2024. However, Samuel Eto’o had tried to overturn this decision from the outset. Further accusations against the coach included skipping scheduled meetings. He also reportedly refused to disclose his training plans. Brys missed deadlines for squad announcements. Additionally, he allegedly used “subterfuge” to avoid mandatory press conferences.

Key Players Omitted from Provisional Squad

With Brys abruptly removed, assistant coach David Pagou has stepped in. He must stabilize the team just weeks before AFCON 2025 begins. The tournament kicks off in Morocco on December 21. Pagou, a respected figure in Cameroonian club football, quickly named a provisional 28-man list. However, this squad selection has already raised eyebrows.

Several of Cameroon’s biggest names are missing without explanation. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor, is absent. Long-serving captain Vincent Aboubakar is also omitted. Napoli’s midfield engine Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is out. Experienced defender Michael Ngadeu also failed to make the cut.

Only Anguissa’s absence has a known cause; the midfielder is recovering from an injury. The lack of clarity regarding other exclusions has fueled intense speculation. It suggests deeper divisions within the squad. Ongoing tensions between the federation and coaching staff are also widely suspected.