It has been reported that one of Cameroon's most high-profile players almost left the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations early following a fallout with the federation's president Samuel Eto'o.
Earlier this week, an apparent bust-up between Cameroonian Football Federation chief Eto'o and goalkeeper Andre Onana led to the Manchester United player being dropped from the Indomitable Lions' starting XI.
The 27-year-old, who arrived at the tournament late due to club responsibilities, was benched for Cameroon's dramatic 3-2 victory over Gambia and is expected to continue on the sidelines when they go up against Nigeria in the round of 16 this weekend.
According to the Daily Star, Onana contemplated leaving the competition early after his disagreement with Eto'o, which was believed to involve a raising of voices in what was called an "aggressive exchange".
The former Inter Milan shot-stopper, however, ultimately decided to continue in Ivory Coast, with images during Cameroon's final group match showing him passionately celebrating his nation's stoppage-time winner against Gambia.
Onana was criticised following his late arrival in west Africa as some accused the United No. 1 of disrespecting the Africa Cup of Nations.
Six months ago, his participation in the tournament was uncertain after his early retirement from international football following a fallout with head coach Rigobert Song at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Cameroon will take on Nigeria in the last 16 on Saturday.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
WATCH VIDEO:
