Tensions, Unpaid Wages Lead to Cameroon Coach's Exit Five Months Before AFCON

Tensions, Unpaid Wages Lead to Cameroon Coach's Exit Five Months Before AFCON 

By Niyi Busari 

 Belgian coach Marc Brys has officially resigned as head coach of Cameroon’s national football team, citing unpaid wages and breach of contract just five months before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education dated July 21, 2025, Brys announced the unilateral termination of his contract, which was signed on April 8, 2024. He said the decision was prompted by the non-payment of his salary and that of his technical staff for over 60 days — a direct violation of Article 7, Paragraph 4 of his employment agreement.

 “As Head Coach of the Indomitable Lions, I hereby formally notify you of my decision to unilaterally terminate the aforementioned contract for just cause,” Brys wrote. “I request immediate payment of the residual value of the contract as compensation, as stipulated.”

He also warned that if the matter is not resolved promptly, it could result in legal proceedings before national courts or the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), as outlined in the contract’s dispute resolution provisions.

Brys' departure comes amid longstanding tensions with the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), led by president Samuel Eto’o. Although Brys was appointed by the Ministry of Sports, his relationship with FECAFOOT deteriorated rapidly after he rejected the federation’s appointed coaching staff, leading to a complete breakdown in collaboration.

In response, FECAFOOT issued a statement on Wednesday acknowledging Brys' resignation and pledging to implement a “coordinated response” to minimize disruption ahead of the upcoming continental tournament.

Despite the off-field turmoil, Brys delivered solid results during his brief tenure. Under his leadership, Cameroon recorded eight wins, five draws, and just one loss.

Cameroon faces a challenging road ahead. The Indomitable Lions are set to compete in Group F at the 2025 AFCON alongside defending champions Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Mozambique. They also remain firmly in contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently sitting second in their qualifying group — one point behind Cape Verde with four matches remaining.