Andre Onana returns to AFCON 2025 squad while fired coach insists he’s still in charge

Everything started when the Sports Ministry of Cameroon appointed Marc Brys as the national team manager - a decision that went against president Eto’o’s wishes. This caused internal conflict within the organisation, leading to Cameroon losing their World Cup spot and affecting their AFCON preparations.

Recently, FECAFOOT announced that Marc Brys was fired ahead of AFCON for “subterfuge,” “professional failure,” and accusations of “inciting” players to defy the federation. However, Brys said he was never formally notified and insists he is still the head coach. There are even allegations that he engaged in “active collaboration with unknown individuals within FECAFOOT.”

At first, Brys selected the former Manchester United keeper as the team’s starter. The list also included Bryan Mbeumo and Carlos Baleba, both key Premier League players. But after the leadership dispute exploded, FECAFOOT appointed David Pagou as interim coach and released a new squad list excluding Onana. They even called up local goalkeeper Edouard Sombang from Colombe de Sangmelima, despite the league not having played any matches in the past six months. After being sacked by FECAFOOT, Marc Brys insists he is still in charge as head coach and that Andre Onana remains in his AFCON 2025 squad. 

According to The Sun, FECAFOOT’s decisions have confused the players, with some expressing concern about the national team’s future. Cameroon’s preparations appear unstable heading into the tournament. Government officials and FECAFOOT are currently holding meetings to find a solution. As AFCON squad lists must be finalised today, the final call-up will depend on which authority has the stronger voice.

Cameroon will face Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s Gabon in their first match on December 25th. At AFCON 2025, they are in Group F alongside Gabon, Mozambique and Côte d’Ivoire. Historically, Cameroon have won 5 AFCON titles (1984, 1988, 2000, 2002 and 2017). But in 2023, they exited in the Round of 16 after losing 0-2 to Nigeria, who finished as runners-up.