Cameroon fires coach as new hire omits Onana Aboubakar ahead of AFCON

Cameroon’s football leadership has made bold changes just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The country dismissed its coach, replacing him with a domestic-league tactician who promptly excluded two of the team’s biggest stars, André Onana and Vincent Aboubakar, from the tournament squad. This move sends shock-waves through fans and analysts alike as anticipation builds toward AFCON’s kick-off in Morocco.

Why the shake-up: coach sacked, fresh leadership installed

Cameroon parted ways with its Belgian coach, Marc Brys, following a disappointing failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The final nail came after a home loss in the playoff against DR Congo, which ended any hope of reaching the global tournament. In the wake of that defeat, the national football federation — led by legendary former player Samuel Eto’o — opted to bring in a domestic coach.

The new head coach, David Pagou, has roots in Cameroon’s local leagues. He was thrust into charge just weeks before AFCON, marking the start of a new chapter under intense scrutiny. The federation issued a list of grievances against the outgoing coach: insubordination, failure to meet professional obligations, and alleged subterfuge during his tenure.

Immediate fallout: Onana and Aboubakar dropped

Almost immediately, Pagou dropped Onana and Aboubakar from the 28-man AFCON squad. Onana, though active at club level — playing on loan from Manchester United — was omitted without any public injury or disciplinary explanation. Similarly, Aboubakar, one of Cameroon’s most experienced forwards, was left out, surprising many supporters given his past contributions to the national team.

These decisions drew immediate backlash and speculation. Many wonder whether the move reflects a broader agenda of restructuring and rebuilding. Others view it as possible internal politics or a bold push for fresh energy and discipline ahead of the continental tournament.

What changed: from failure to World Cup to AFCON challenge

The drive behind the coaching change is rooted in disappointment. Cameroon failed to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, ending a streak of consistent appearances. That failure tested patience among fans, officials, and stakeholders who expect excellence from a five-time African champion.

With AFCON kicking off in less than a month, the federation sees this as a chance for redemption — a fresh start under new leadership. By appointing a local coach and reshuffling the squad, officials are signaling urgency and a desire for renewed performance.

Risks and challenges of last-minute overhaul

However, such sweeping changes pose risks. First, cohesion and chemistry may suffer. The national team has limited time to adapt to Pagou’s style, strategies, and demands. Omitting star players might hurt morale, especially among players and fans accustomed to relying on experienced heads.

Second, public reaction may be harsh. Many supporters view Onana and Aboubakar as symbols of talent and commitment. Their absence could undermine trust or provoke dissent — particularly if results at AFCON disappoint.

Third, pressure is immense. Pagou must deliver results quickly to justify the abrupt shake-up. Any early losses or poor performance may be met with fierce criticism, undermining long-term rebuilding.

Potential motivations behind the decisions

Several factors may explain the radical changes:

• A desire for discipline and renewed team spirit — a domestic coach may impose stricter standards, closer monitoring, and greater alignment with local realities.
• Political and administrative influence — under Eto’o’s renewed presidency of the football federation, there may be intent to assert control and reset direction for national football.
• Focus on emerging talents — excluding older stars can open space for younger players, a strategy often used to build long-term competitiveness.
• Psychological reset — after World Cup failure, a clean break might help alleviate pressure and unify the team around a fresh vision.

What this means for AFCON 2025 and beyond

Cameroon’s Group F in AFCON 2025 pits them against tough rivals, including the defending champions and other competitive squads. With the new coach and restructured roster, the team enters the tournament under intense scrutiny.

If Pagou can galvanise the squad and extract performance, the changes might kick-start a new era. However, poor results — especially given the exclusion of high-profile players — could deepen divisions and undermine confidence.

Beyond the tournament, the overhaul could shape the national team’s trajectory for years. It may influence youth development, player selection policies, and the balance between domestic and foreign‐based professionals.

A bold gamble on fresh start and discipline

Cameroon’s decision to fire its coach, hire new local leadership, and omit key players before AFCON is a bold gamble. It reflects a desire to rebuild trust, instil discipline, and reset expectations — but it also signals a willingness to accept uncertainty and criticism.

Whether this gamble pays off depends on three factors: how quickly players adapt, whether the coach can unite the squad around a clear vision, and if results meet—or exceed—expectations.

Ultimately, this moment could mark a turning point for Cameroonian football: either a reset toward renewed success, or a controversial misstep under pressure.