André Onana on Cameroon exile: “I was forced into retirement, but my love for the team remains”

André Onana has broken his silence on an ongoing absence from the Cameroon national team, offering candid insights into the circumstances that led to his controversial international exile.

This goal by Cape Verde’s Livramento on Andre Onana and Cameroon 😮 pic.twitter.com/9mVSEWXih9

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The Manchester United goalkeeper clarified that his issues do not lie with the national team itself or the country’s football governing body, the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT).

Instead, Onana pointed to a personal disagreement with an individual he claims is leveraging the federation and national team structures to settle personal scores.

“I have no problems with the national team; I have no problem with the Cameroon federation,” Onana stated. “I am in disagreement with an individual who is using the Cameroon federation and the national team to settle scores. If you don’t agree, you’ll be kicked out.”

The shot-stopper’s remarks shed new light on the internal tensions that have overshadowed his international career in recent years. Once a key figure for the Indomitable Lions, Onana has found himself on the fringes under contentious circumstances, including his abrupt exit during the FIFA World Cup 2022.

Reflecting on the personal toll of the situation, Onana revealed the sacrifices he made representing his country and the emotional weight of his forced departure.

“I took a lot of hits for the love of our country. I was forced into retirement,” he said with a hint of irony.

Despite the strained relations, the former Ajax and Inter Milan goalkeeper insists his commitment to the Indomitable Lions remains unwavering. While no longer part of the squad, Onana continues to support the team from afar, maintaining close contact with players and offering encouragement after matches.

“Now all I can do is support our younger brothers. I’m their biggest fan, and I send them messages after matches to congratulate them,” he added.

André Onana: A divisive figure in the Indomitable Lions setup

Onana’s comments highlight deeper governance and management concerns within Cameroonian football, raising questions about player relations and decision-making processes at the highest level.

It is worth noting that the goalkeeper was given the captain’s armband at the end of the Indomitable Lions’ failed 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign by previous coach Marc Brys, a move that caused a team revolt and led to Brys’ dismissal. Onana also made a couple of notable mistakes and was accused of failing to meet high standards by national team supporters.

The Belgian coach had a difficult relationship with FECAFOOT president and Cameroonian footballing legend Samuel Eto’o during his entire tenure, due to the fact that Brys was appointed by the country’s Ministry of Youth and Sports rather than FECAFOOT. Since Brys left, Onana has not been called to the Indomitable Lions under Eto’o-appointed coach David Pagou.

As one of Africa’s most prominent goalkeepers, his absence continues to be felt, even as he channels his focus into club football and mentoring the next generation of Cameroonian stars.

While uncertainty still surrounds any potential return, Onana’s words underline a clear message, his love for Cameroon remains intact, even if his international future hangs in the balance.