André Onana has addressed growing speculation over his international future, insisting he remains available for selection while leaving the decision entirely in the hands of head coach David Pagou.
The Manchester United goalkeeper has been notably absent from recent Cameroon squads, missing both the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and the FIFA Series in Australia.
“I haven’t retired”
Despite his absence, Onana was quick to dismiss any suggestion that he has stepped away from international football.
“The national team is for all Cameroonians and I haven’t retired,” he said. “But if I’m not called up, it simply means I’m not up to standard.”
His statement reinforces a clear message: the door is still open, but the decision is no longer his to make.
Responsibility placed on the coach
Onana openly acknowledged that his return depends entirely on the national team manager.
“The day Coach Pagou considers me good enough, I’ll be called up and we’ll see,” he added, effectively placing the responsibility for his recall on the current technical setup.
The comments reflect a composed but revealing stance, hinting at underlying tensions while maintaining respect for the system in place.
New generation stepping up
In his absence, Cameroon’s goalkeeping department has evolved, with players like Devis Epassy and Simon Ngapandouetnbu stepping into more prominent roles.
Onana himself acknowledged their rise, noting the quality and depth now available to the squad.
This growing competition has further complicated his path back into the team, as the Indomitable Lions continue to build with new options between the posts.
A future still uncertain
While Onana’s tone remains calm and diplomatic, his situation highlights a deeper uncertainty surrounding his role in the national team.
He has neither closed the chapter nor secured his return—leaving his international future hanging in the balance.
Door remains open
For now, Cameroon appear settled without their former first-choice goalkeeper.
But Onana’s message is clear: he is ready, willing, and waiting.
Whether that opportunity comes again will depend on one decision when, or if, Coach Pagou decides to call his name once more.
