Marc Brys Defies Cameroon Sacking, Keeps AFCON Squad Intact
Belgian coach Marc Brys has refused to accept his dismissal as Cameroon manager, despite being reportedly sacked by Fecafoot president Samuel Eto’o. Below you will see information about is news which has been summarized The Football Breakdown.
Brys remains under contract with the Ministry of Sport until September 2026 and has yet to receive an official termination notice, giving him grounds to continue in charge. Instead of stepping aside, Brys has announced the squad he plans to take to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
This move highlights the ongoing conflict between him and Eto’o, with both sides claiming authority over the national team. Brys’ defiance underscores a wider issue of governance and procedure in Cameroonian football.
While FIFA lists David Pagou as Cameroon’s manager, Brys insists the state still recognizes him as the head coach. He argues that no formal decree has appointed Pagou, making his position valid in the eyes of the government. The saga has left the national team in an uncertain position just weeks before AFCON.
Criticism of Eto’o
Brys has openly criticized Eto’o, describing him as “narcissistic” and accusing him of poor decision-making. He questioned Eto’o’s choices, particularly around player selection, claiming the president prioritizes personal agendas over the team’s needs.
The Belgian coach expressed frustration that key players with leadership and experience, like Vincent Aboubakar, were not fully considered for the squad. Brys’ comments suggest deep-seated tensions between management and the football federation, which could affect team morale.
By publicly challenging Eto’o, Brys is taking a bold stand, showing his commitment to his players and his belief in proper procedure. His statements have drawn attention internationally, highlighting the chaotic environment within Cameroonian football ahead of a major tournament.
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Hope for Andre Onana
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana could benefit if Brys remains in charge. Onana, who struggled at Old Trafford and is now on loan at Trabzonspor, has been left out of Pagou’s official AFCON squad. However, Brys included him on his alternative list, keeping the goalkeeper in contention.
Onana’s career has faced setbacks, including disciplinary issues during the 2022 World Cup. Despite this, he has played more regularly in recent seasons and could regain his national team spot under Brys’ leadership. The inclusion of players like Bryan Mbeumo, Carlos Baleba, and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting further shows Brys’ focus on talent and experience.
If given the chance, Onana might finally regain his confidence and prove crucial for Cameroon between the posts. Brys’ insistence on including him could be a lifeline for the goalkeeper’s international career.
AFCON Challenges Ahead
Cameroon faces a tough start to the tournament, with their first match against Gabon on Christmas Eve. They also face Ivory Coast and Mozambique in the group stage, making preparation critical despite the internal chaos.
Hosts Morocco are favorites, boasting stars like Achraf Hakimi and Yassine Bounou. Senegal, Algeria, Egypt, and Ivory Coast also pose serious challenges, meaning Cameroon will need cohesion and strong leadership to compete.
The uncertainty surrounding the coaching situation could complicate the team’s preparation. Whether Brys or Pagou ultimately leads the squad, Cameroon must resolve its internal disputes quickly if they hope to mount a serious AFCON campaign. Follow footballtipsonline.co.uk for weekly deep dives into football’s biggest stories.
