AFCON 2025: Onana left out of Cameroon squad

Cameroon goalkeeper André Onana has been left out of the national team squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), delivering one of the most unexpected shocks in the squad announced ahead of the tournament.

The Trabzonspor keeper, a regular for the Indomitable Lions in recent years, was omitted by newly appointed head coach David Pagou. Alongside Onana, long-serving captain Vincent Aboubakar was also excluded from the traveling team to Morocco.

AFCON 2025: Onana left out of Cameroon squad

Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo, however, has been included, providing a significant boost to Cameroon’s attacking options as preparations intensify for the competition, which kicks off on December 21.

The squad changes come after the dismissal of coach Marc Brys and the appointment of Pagou, a veteran Cameroonian football coach and physical-education teacher. His selections have already sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts, with many interpreting the moves as part of a broader plan to rejuvenate the team.

Cameroon, five-time AFCON champions, are looking to reclaim their place atop African football after recent disappointments, including failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under Brys’ leadership.