Eto’o apologises to Cameroon coach after heated argument

Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot) President Samuel Eto’o has apologised to coach Marc Brys and reiterated his support for the Belgian, who remains head coach of the Indomitable Lions.

Fecafoot had issued a statement sacking Marc Brys following a dispute with Eto’o. The statement cited disrespectful remarks made by Brys and his refusal to collaborate, among other factors, leading to the dismissal.

Brys, who was employed in early April by Cameroon’s Ministry of Sport, faced confusion from Fecafoot, which publicly declared its surprise at the appointment, stating it was made independently without consultation.

Videos circulating online showcased a passionate dialogue between Brys and Eto’o, ending abruptly with Brys leaving the scene.

Further footage captured Eto’o engaging in a heated argument with an officer representing the sports department.

🇨🇲😳 Cameroon FA president Samuel Eto’o had a heated argument with the team’s new Belgian coach Marc Brys.

He said: “I’m the president, you can’t speak to me like that. Do you think I could do this in Belgium? So how can you do this in Cameroon?” pic.twitter.com/JEmvDV1MMz

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) May 29, 2024

Despite these differences, Eto’o apologised at a press conference and promised to work with Brys.

“I will start by offering you my apologies for the last time. There was a lot of emotion,” said the former Barcelona star. Marc Brys followed suit, also emphasising the need for reconciliation.

The coach will now focus on the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Cape Verde and Angola.