The inclusion of Andre Onana in Rigobert Song’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast may signal an end to the discord that dogged the Cameroon team at the World Cup last year.

The truth, though, is very different since there is still friction between Cameroon’s football federation head Samuel Eto’o and manager Rigobet Song. There are accusations of corruption and intimidation mixed with personalities, politics, resentment, and guilt.

Andre Onana’s move from Inter Milan to Manchester United for £47.2 million in the summer coincides with the uncertainties surrounding his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

When asked if he might miss up to six games during the Africa Cup of Nations, Erik ten Hag hesitated to officially confirm Andre Onana’s participation. According to Daily Mail, the general consensus is that Onana would report for overseas deployment, despite his reluctance.

After a difficult beginning to his Manchester United career, Onana is worried that he may lose his spot to Altay Bayindir, the team’s backup goalkeeper. Manager Erik ten Hag has been devoted to Onana despite his difficult start, starting without Bayindir for the entire season. Onana understands, meanwhile, that things can change quickly in football and that things might become unpredictable.

Why is there conflict between Andre Onana and Cameroon?

Renowned for his ability to play the ball, Onana created World Cup history in 2022 by touching the ball more than any other goalie since records were kept in 1966. Due to his significant contribution to the team’s build-up play, manager Rigobet Song and Onana had a furious argument that finally led to Onana’s benching for the team’s second match against Serbia.

The head of football, Samuel Eto’o, gave the order for Onana to stay at the Cameroon hotel in Doha rather than traveling with the team. His former international colleague and captain, Rigobert Song, agreed with this choice.

In the face of last-ditch attempts by Cameroonian government representatives to negotiate and broker a peace agreement, Andre Onana left back home and, one month later, made the official announcement on December 23 that he was quitting international football.