Cameroon’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been thrown into fresh uncertainty. Goalkeeper Andre Onana was excluded from a significantly changed provisional squad. This dramatic development came just hours after head coach Marc Brys was controversially dismissed.

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

They alleged he “incited” players to challenge the federation’s authority. He was also accused of “active collaboration with unknown individuals” within FECAFOOT. Brys was appointed by the country’s sports ministry in April 2024. Eto’o had tried to overturn this decision from the start.

Further accusations against Brys included skipping scheduled meetings. He also refused to disclose his training plans. He reportedly failed to meet deadlines for squad announcements. Additionally, he used “subterfuge to evade his professional obligation to hold press conferences.”

With Brys abruptly removed, assistant coach David Pagou has stepped in. He will steady the team just weeks before the tournament. The AFCON 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 has already raised concerns.

Several of the country’s biggest names are notably absent. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor, is missing. Long-standing captain Vincent Aboubakar is also out. Napoli’s midfield general, Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, is another omission. Experienced defender Michael Ngadeu completes the list. Anguissa’s absence is reportedly due to injury.

The lack of clear explanations for these exclusions has fueled much speculation. It suggests deeper divisions within the squad. It also points to ongoing tensions between the federation and the coaching staff.