Onana: “I Was Forced Into Retirement” — Goalkeeper’s Claims Deepen Cameroon FA Tensions

By Angu Lesley

Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

Cameroon goalkeeper André Onana has reignited controversy around the national team, delivering a blunt assessment of his situation with the Indomitable Lions. “I have no problems with the national team; I have no problem with the Cameroon FA,” he said, before adding, “I am in disagreement with an individual who is using the Cameroon FA and the national team to settle scores.”

Onana’s remarks have brought renewed focus to his surprising exclusion from Cameroon’s final squad for the last Africa Cup of Nations. The decision came on the same day that Rigobert Song—the coach who had made him captain—was dismissed, a coincidence that raised serious questions at the time about internal dynamics and decision-making within the Cameroon Football Federation.

This is not the first time Onana has spoken about underlying tensions. Reflecting on his international absence, he stated: “I took a lot of hits for the love of our country. I was forced into retirement (laughs), and now all I can do is support our younger brothers.” His comments echo past incidents, particularly during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, when he was sent home early following a reported disagreement with senior federation officials.

Speculation has long surrounded his relationship with FECAFOOT president Samuel Eto’o. Though Onana came through Eto’o’s academy before moving to Europe, both figures have consistently avoided addressing rumors of a fallout. In public, neither has openly confirmed nor denied claims of a strained relationship.

Despite everything, Onana insists his commitment to Cameroon remains intact. “I’m their biggest fan,” he said of the Indomitable Lions. “I send them messages after matches to congratulate them.” Yet his latest statements are likely to intensify scrutiny over leadership and player relations within Cameroonian football.