In a dramatic pre-tournament shake-up, the Cameroon Football Federation (CFF) has made the shocking decision to drop first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana from its squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The federation also excluded captain and star striker Vincent Aboubakar and announced the sacking of Belgian head coach Marc Brys.
Major Omissions Rock Cameroon's AFCON Preparations
The CFF released its 28-man squad list for the continental tournament, which kicks off in Morocco on December 21, 2025, without the names of two of its most experienced players. Andre Onana, the 29-year-old Manchester United goalkeeper currently on loan at Turkish Süper Lig side Trabzonspor, was a notable absence. Also missing was captain Vincent Aboubakar, the top scorer at the 2023 AFCON, alongside key midfielders Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and defender Michael Ngadeu.
While an injury was cited for Napoli's Anguissa, no official reasons were provided for the other high-profile exclusions. Onana's form at club level has been mixed; he has kept three clean sheets but also conceded 11 goals in his 10 league appearances for Trabzonspor this season.
Coach Sacked Amidst Allegations of Rebellion
In a move that adds to the turmoil, the CFF fired head coach Marc Brys on the same day the squad was announced. Reports, including from the BBC, indicate the Belgian tactician was accused of several serious breaches. The allegations against him include inciting senior players to rebel against the federation, which is led by president Samuel Eto'o.
Further accusations involved failing to attend important meetings, refusing to disclose training plans, jeopardising relationships with team sponsors, and not releasing squad selections on schedule. Brys has been immediately replaced by his assistant, David Pagou, an experienced Cameroonian coach.
Fan Fury and Political Accusations
The decisions have sparked outrage among Cameroonian football supporters, with many directing their anger at federation president Samuel Eto'o. Fans on social media have labelled the omissions as "scapegoating" and evidence of "pure politics and ego ruining the national team."
One fan lamented, "It hurts to see two of Cameroon’s biggest names left out," acknowledging the crucial roles Onana and Aboubakar have played in past campaigns. Others expressed concern that the internal chaos would handicap Cameroon's chances at the tournament, stating, "Other African countries are getting stronger while Cameroon looks like a total mess."
Despite the controversy, the squad does include some familiar faces. Bryan Mbeumo, the forward who plays for Premier League side Manchester United, has been selected among the strikers for the Indomitable Lions.
This squad announcement comes amid reports that Andre Onana's future at Manchester United is also uncertain, with speculation suggesting his departure from Old Trafford could be imminent this summer.
