André Onana's tumultuous relationship with the Indomitable Lions has reached a new breaking point just weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The situation is not simply a matter of form but a full-blown political crisis that has thrown Cameroon's preparations into disarray.
The Official Exclusion: The FECAFOOT Squad
The initial news broke on December 1st with the announcement of the official 28-man squad by the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), led by newly re-elected president Samuel Eto'o.
The Decision: Onana's name was notably absent from the roster announced by interim coach David Pagou.
The Motive (Ostensibly): Onana has faced heavy criticism for his recent performances,
especially following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after a playoff loss to DR Congo. Eto'o and the federation are reportedly pushing for a major squad overhaul, with Onana and veteran striker Vincent Aboubakar being the most high-profile casualties.
The Reality: Many believe the decision is purely political. Onana has been in and out of the national team since his public falling out with former coach Rigobert Song at the 2022 World Cup, and his relationship with the powerful Eto'o has long been tense.
The Twist: The Rival Squad and The Sacked Coach
In an almost unbelievable twist, the manager who was technically in charge until recently,
Marc Brys, is refusing to accept his sacking and has named his own rival squad—which does include André Onana!
The Feud: Eto'o and the Belgian coach, Marc Brys, have been locked in a bitter public feud.
Eto'o formally dismissed Brys just weeks before the tournament, citing "subterfuge," "professional failure," and "disobedience."
The Refusal: Brys claims he has not received an official termination letter from the Ministry of Sport,
which appointed him, and is refusing to vacate his post. He has released his own squad and training program.The Consequence: The Cameroonian government and the federation are currently in crisis talks to decide which squad—and which manager—will be recognized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ahead of the deadline.
Onana Caught in the Middle
Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor in Turkey, is an involuntary pawn in this high-stakes game.
The final, official squad list submitted to CAF will ultimately determine Onana's availability.
As of now, the most recent and publicly supported list from the federation excludes him.
Is this political chaos the reason Cameroon has failed to reach the World Cup? And who will CAF ultimately side with in this managerial battle?