AFCON 2025: Onana Left Out As Cameroon Shockingly Omits Vincent Aboubakar From Squad

Cameroon has made a major surprise in its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad, leaving out goalkeeper André Onana and veteran captain Vincent Aboubakar.

Onana, the Trabzonspor shot-stopper who has been a regular presence for the Indomitable Lions, was not included by newly appointed head coach David Pagou. Aboubakar, a long-serving leader of the team, was also omitted from the traveling squad to Morocco.

Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has been named in the squad, strengthening Cameroon’s attacking options as the team gears up for the tournament starting December 21.

The changes follow the sacking of coach Marc Brys and the hiring of Pagou, a seasoned Cameroonian coach and physical-education teacher. His selections have already sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many seeing the moves as part of a plan to refresh the squad and inject new energy.

Cameroon, five-time AFCON champions, aim to bounce back on the continental stage after recent setbacks, including failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under Brys.