News
Onana disrespected Cameroon over late arrival at AFCON – Adebayor
The Manchester United goalkeeper travelled 5,000 miles in less than 24 hours to make Cameroon’s opening Africa Cup of Nations match – only to be left out of the squad.
I don’t know who at Cameroon has it in for Onana, but he was clearly given assurances that he would start against Guinea on Monday. Then coach Rigobert Song left him out of the squad entirely.
Onana was spotted by journalists venting about the situation at El Hadji Diou. The keeper reportedly asked: “If I wasn’t going to play or make the team, then why did I come here on a private jet?”
It is also worth noting that Onana was given permission to stay with United longer to take on Tottenham, granted he showed up for their first game on time, which meant he followed instructions.
In an interview with Canal+, Onana left his frustrations known by saying (via The Telegraph): “I have a lot to say but I will not say it here because we are in competition. Let me continue to be criticised, I am used to it. I do what is good for my country.”
However, former Togo international and Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor believes Onana has shown disrespect towards Cameroon. Speaking to Sport News Africa (via AllezLesLions), he said: “He [Onana] did not respect Cameroon. I was a player like him, and even being the most important player in my selection, I never acted in this way [arriving on the day of the match]. The fact that this situation is happening shows that there is a problem, perhaps even within the federation. He risks losing big, because he has alienated the Cameroonian supporters, as well as many African supporters and undoubtedly certain members of the team.”
Adebayor is talking a load of waffle if you ask me, and it sounds like there are a few critics really out to get Onana. It doesn’t help that he has had a rocky start to life at Old Trafford but I hope he can show better form following the AFCON.
It is believed Onana already knew that Fabrice Ondoa would be starting in goal against Guinea, but Devis Epassy and Simon Ngapandouetnbu were named as the two substitute goalkeepers on the Cameroon bench for the 1-1 draw.
Cameroon are back in action on Friday when they take on group leaders Senegal at 5pm.
-
World Cup 202616 hours agoJoe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will ‘put Lionel Messi to bed’
-
World Cup 202617 hours agoJude Bellingham and Thomas Tuchel’s fiery relationship is driving England forward at the World Cup
-
World Cup 202617 hours agoCristiano Ronaldo gets backing from Jorge Jesus as new Portugal boss confirms Al-Nassr star remains central to World Cup plans
-
World Cup 202616 hours agoTed Lasso star Cristo Fernandez fulfils football dream with professional debut for El Paso Locomotive
-
World Cup 20269 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
-
World Cup 202616 hours agoKylian Mbappe has the perfect chance to silence his Spanish critics against Spain in World Cup semi-final
-
Sports Analysis10 hours agoAndoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan
-
Other News17 hours agoTony Cascarino reveals what Cole Palmer must do to emulate Chelsea legends Gianfranco Zola and Eden Hazard