André Onana has broken his silence over his continued absence from the Cameroon national team, criticising what he describes as a culture of exclusion within the country’s football leadership while insisting he remains open to a return.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper, currently on loan at Trabzonspor after a difficult spell with Manchester United, made the remarks during a live broadcast on social media.
His comments come months after he was left out of the Indomitable Lions squad, including during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Onana’s omission coincides with the leadership of Samuel Eto’o at FECAFOOT, as well as the appointment of David Pagou. Several established players have also been absent from the national team setup during this period.
Speaking publicly for the first time about the situation, Onana sought to clarify that his frustration is not directed at the team itself.
“I have no problems with the national team, I have no problem with FECAFOOT. I disagree with an individual who is using FECAFOOT and the national team to settle scores.”
Although he did not name anyone directly, the statement is widely interpreted as a reference to Eto’o, the federation’s president.
Onana went further, describing what he believes to be a restrictive environment for players who express dissenting views.
“If you don’t agree, you’ll be fired. If you don’t tell the truth, you’ll be fired.”
He added: “I can be accused of many things. There are things I won’t let slide. That’s why they want my head off too.”
The comments underline what appears to be a deepening divide between the goalkeeper and the current football administration in Cameroon, raising doubts about his short-term international future.
Despite the tension, Onana stressed that his commitment to representing his country has not changed.
“An old guy like me, for the love of our country, I’ve taken a lot of hits. But now, I’m their biggest fan. I send them congratulatory messages after the matches. You’re doing better than us.”
“The national team is for all Cameroonians, and I’m not retired. But if I’m not called up, it simply means I’m not good enough.
“The day Coach Pagou decides I’m good enough, they’ll call me up and we’ll see. For now, we have Epassy, who’s good. We have Simon Ngapandouetnbu and some other new players.”
For now, Onana’s international future remains uncertain.
While his performances at club level could yet strengthen his case for a recall, his relationship with the federation’s leadership appears strained.
