Cameroon’s Africa Cup of Nations preparations are in disarray. Goalkeeper Andre Onana is out of the latest provisional squad. This decision follows closely on the heels of head coach Marc Brys’ dramatic dismissal. The national team now faces fresh uncertainty ahead of AFCON 2025.
The Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) announced Brys’ removal. FECAFOOT is led by president Samuel Eto’o. This dramatic statement came shortly after Eto’o’s re-election as the federation’s head.
FECAFOOT accused the Belgian coach of “professional failure.” They alleged he “incited” players to challenge the federation’s authority. Furthermore, Brys was accused of “active collaboration with unknown individuals within Fecafoot.”
Brys’ appointment by the sports ministry in April 2024 was contentious. Samuel Eto’o had opposed it from the start. Additional accusations against Brys included skipping scheduled meetings. He reportedly refused to share his training plans. He also failed to meet squad announcement deadlines. Finally, he was accused of using “subterfuge” to avoid press conferences.
Interim Coach Takes Charge
With Brys’ sudden removal, assistant coach David Pagou steps in. He has been tasked with stabilizing the team. The tournament kicks off in Morocco on December 21. This leaves Pagou only weeks to prepare.
Pagou is a respected figure in Cameroonian club football. He quickly named a provisional 28-man squad. However, this list has already sparked significant debate.
Key Players Omitted from Squad
Several prominent players are notably absent from the squad. No official explanation has been given for most omissions. Star goalkeeper Andre Onana, on loan at Trabzonspor from Manchester United, is missing. Long-standing captain Vincent Aboubakar is also out. Napoli’s midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and experienced defender Michael Ngadeu complete the list of notable exclusions. Only Anguissa’s absence is understood; he is currently recovering from an injury.
The lack of transparency regarding these exclusions fuels speculation. Many believe there are deeper divisions within the squad. Tensions between FECAFOOT and the coaching staff also seem to persist.
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