National team coach David Pagou's decision to leave out Serge Daura, the recent winner of the 2025 Cameroonian Ballon d'Or, from the upcoming training camp for local Indomitable Lions, is already generating strong reactions. Scheduled to begin on March 6, the camp will proceed without last season's breakout player, a choice Pagou justifies based on current form.
"Serge Daura was a sensation last season. We continue to follow him," stated David Pagou, acknowledging the impact of the midfielder who led Gazelle FA of Garoua to third place in the league and earned him the title of best player in Cameroon. His impressive statistics, with 15 goals and 11 assists, made him one of the most decisive players last season.
However, Pagou added, "He will not be there for the camp starting on the 6th because we are working with those who have started the league." This explanation suggests that Daura may not have participated in the early matches of the current season, unlike other local players.
This absence raises questions about the technical staff's priorities: favoring current form or relying on proven talent? Pagou's decision seems to lean towards the former, even if it means temporarily doing without a player of exceptional status.
It remains to be seen whether this exclusion is temporary or a sign of deeper tensions. Pagou left the door open for Daura's return, stating that he continues to follow him and that a future call-up is possible if the player regains his competitive rhythm.
Serge Daura's absence from the March camp promises to fuel discussions among Indomitable Lions fans. At just 19 years old, Daura was crowned king of Cameroonian football at the annual awards ceremony organized by the Cameroonian Football Federation (Fecafoot). He received his trophy from the First Lady, Chantal Biya.
In addition to the Ballon d'Or, Daura was also named revelation of the 2024-2025 season and won the Golden Boot with 15 goals and 11 assists. He walked away with a check for 5 million CFA francs, a car, and a land title of 500 m².
