Cameroonian football has been thrown into shock after star goalkeeper André Onana was excluded from the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across the football community.
The Trabzonspor goalkeeper, widely considered a key figure for the Indomitable Lions, was dropped by newly appointed head coach David Pagou, who appears determined to begin a fresh chapter for the five-time African champions.
Onana’s omission wasn’t the only headline-making move.
In another stunning decision, long-serving captain Vincent Aboubakar was also left out of the squad heading to Morocco. The veteran striker, who has been the heartbeat of Cameroon’s attack for nearly a decade, was expected by many fans to be a guaranteed inclusion.
However, there was a boost for supporters as Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo was named in the final squad, adding firepower to Cameroon’s frontline ahead of the tournament kickoff on December 21.
These bold calls come after a turbulent phase for Cameroonian football.
Former coach Marc Brys was sacked, paving the way for Pagou — an experienced local coach and physical education teacher — to take charge. His arrival has now produced one of the most dramatic squad shake-ups in recent years.
Football analysts say Pagou is attempting to rebuild a team that has struggled with inconsistency, especially after Cameroon failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Fans remain divided:
some welcome the bold new direction, while others fear that dropping Onana and Aboubakar may haunt Cameroon on the continental stage.
Be the first to comment