FECAFOOT accuses FC Nantes of double standards over Lilian Djeudje’s U-17 World Cup release

By Angu Lesley

Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon

The Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has intensified its efforts to secure the release of Lilian Marcus Djeudje from French club FC Nantes, accusing the Ligue 1 side of applying double standards in its handling of the young defender’s international commitments.

In an official letter dated November 10, 2026, and addressed to the president of FC Nantes, FECAFOOT Secretary General Mandong Isaac Noé formally requested the immediate release of Djeudje to join Cameroon’s U-17 national team, which is already in Qatar preparing for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

According to the correspondence, FECAFOOT had made two requests, on November 5 and 6, seeking the player’s release. However, Nantes reportedly maintained its refusal, arguing that Djeudje had not been formally registered on the final list of players for the competition.

FECAFOOT has strongly questioned that justification, particularly after pointing to what it considers an inconsistency in the club’s treatment of another player.

The federation recalled that Nantes had authorised the release of Joan Merrifield, a teammate of Djeudje, to represent France in the same competition and under similar circumstances.

It consequently described the situation as a case of double standards, suggesting that the refusal could constitute discriminatory favouritism or an attempt to weaken Cameroon in favour of another country.

The federation insisted that Djeudje deserves the opportunity to fulfil his dream and personal ambition of representing Cameroon at the World Cup. It also noted that his parents share the desire to see him participate in the tournament with the Young Indomitable Lions.

FECAFOOT therefore urged Nantes to reconsider its position and take all necessary measures to allow the youngster to join his international teammates without further delay. The letter also expressed hope that the French club would respond favourably to the request.

The dispute comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Cameroon’s U-17 team, with the tournament approaching and preparations already underway in Qatar. Djeudje features among the 21 players named in Cameroon’s World Cup squad, making his availability an important issue for the technical staff.

For Cameroon, the matter goes beyond the availability of one young footballer. It touches on the relationship between clubs and national federations, the international development of young talents and the responsibility of European academies to facilitate legitimate international opportunities for eligible players.

Whether Nantes will change its position following FECAFOOT’s latest intervention remains to be seen. For now, the Cameroonian federation has made its position clear: Lilian Djeudje should be allowed to represent his country on the biggest stage of youth international football.