Andre Onana has been named in Cameroon’s provisional Africa Cup of Nations squad only seven days after the coach who selected him was removed from office, deepening the turmoil surrounding the national team, per The Sun.
The shock inclusion of the goalkeeper highlights the intense dispute crippling the country’s football leadership ahead of Thursday’s squad submission deadline.
The tension stems from Marc Brys’ appointment by the Sports Ministry, a decision rejected by Fecafoot president Samuel Eto’o. Their standoff has fuelled an internal crisis that contributed to Cameroon’s World Cup exit and now threatens their preparations for the continental showcase.
Brys, despite his official dismissal, maintains he was never formally notified and insists he remains head coach.
The Belgian named a 28-man squad and outlined his Afcon programme, placing Onana at the top of his goalkeeping options. He also included Bryan Mbeumo and Carlos Baleba, both important European-based players.
Brys’ resistance follows Fecafoot’s decision to sack him for what it described as “subterfuge,” “professional failure,” and attempts to “incite” players against the federation.
In response, Fecafoot appointed David Pagou as interim coach and released a rival squad list that omits Onana. Pagou instead selected Edouard Sombang of Colombe de Sangmelima, even though no league football has taken place there for six months. Mbeumo and Baleba appear on both lists, further complicating the situation.
The conflicting announcements have left players unsettled, with several quietly expressing concern about the instability surrounding the national team. With Afcon days away, Cameroon’s preparation has been overshadowed by administrative battles rather than tactical work.
Government officials and Fecafoot representatives held emergency discussions on Wednesday in an attempt to resolve the impasse.
The final squad must be confirmed by Thursday, though no clarity has emerged on which authority will have the decisive say.
