The president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), Samuel Eto'o, has expressed his satisfaction with the Indomitable Lions' performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite not winning the tournament, Eto'o described the team's performance as "exceptional," emphasizing the regained pride and unity it generated among Cameroonians.
In a statement to Digital B Agency, Eto'o highlighted the crucial role of David Pagou, who was appointed national coach before AFCON 2025. He stated that Pagou prevented a situation where "a mediocre, unknown person takes an entire country hostage because he has a few accomplices." Eto'o expressed his satisfaction in trusting Cameroonian expertise by appointing Pagou.
Eto'o also denounced certain practices observed in Cameroonian football, including the tendency to favor foreign coaches over local talent. He pointed out that Cameroonian society sometimes pushes footballers to live beyond their means, alluding to his own journey.
The FECAFOOT president stressed the need to give young Cameroonians the opportunity to express themselves and contribute to the country's development. He cited the example of David Pagou, who experienced a rapid rise after his appointment, despite attempts to marginalize him. Eto'o hopes that Cameroonian leaders will understand the importance of supporting local talent, beyond political considerations and personal interests.
Eto'o also publicly defended his decision to increase David Pagou's salary, stating that it is legitimate to invest heavily in Cameroonian skills. He criticized the tendency to overpay "incompetent" foreign coaches, stressing that national expertise should no longer be undervalued. This salary increase sends a strong signal to Cameroonian coaches, encouraging them to raise their standards and strive for excellence.
