Cameroon in Crisis: Samuel Eto’o, Coach Feud and Cameroon AFCON 2025 Squad Drama

Cameroon’s build-up to the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 has been overshadowed by an unprecedented power struggle between Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), and national team coach Marc Brys.

With less than two weeks to go before the tournament in Morocco, the situation has escalated to a point where two rival squad lists have been published and conflicting claims of authority loom over the Indomitable Lions’ preparations.

The flashpoint stems from Eto’o’s decision to dismiss Brys, a move the coach refuses to accept, arguing his contract remains valid and that he has not been formally notified of a legitimate termination. FECAFOOT responded by appointing David Pagou as interim coach and announcing a 28-man squad that notably excludes star players such as André Onana, Vincent Aboubakar, and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, omissions that have sparked controversy and speculation about Eto’o’s motivations.

Cameroon AFCON 2025 Squad Drama

Brys, calling his removal “illegal,” submitted his own squad list including the omitted stars, deepening confusion over who truly leads the team into AFCON.

Beyond the leadership clash, accusations of personal influence on squad selection have emerged, with allegations that Eto’o may have played a part in excluding Aboubakar, potentially to protect his standing as Cameroon's all-time goal scorer, though these claims are yet to be confirmed by official sources.

As Cameroon confronts its opening match with mounting uncertainty, the drama highlights how internal politics and football governance can dramatically impact a national team’s readiness for Africa’s premier competition; fans and pundits alike are watching closely to see whether this off-field standoff will derail the nation’s AFCON aspirations.