In a move that signals a seismic shift for the Indomitable Lions, Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo has reportedly been named the new Cameroon AFCON Captain for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The decision places the 26-year-old at the helm of the national team as they seek a new leader amid significant internal turmoil and dramatic squad changes ahead of the tournament’s December 21 start.
Mbeumo’s ascension to captaincy is a direct consequence of the ongoing power struggle within Cameroonian football. The official AFCON squad, released by new head coach David Pagou, controversially omitted veteran captain Vincent Aboubakar and star goalkeeper André Onana. With these established leaders absent, Mbeumo, who has been in stellar form for his club, has been tasked with filling the leadership void and becoming the team’s new on-field focal point.
The dramatic shake-up stems from a bitter feud between the country’s Football Federation (FECAFOOT), led by Samuel Eto’o, and the Ministry of Sports. Sources suggest the omission of high-profile veterans like Aboubakar and Onana has opened the door for Mbeumo to embrace a new role as the team’s offensive and emotional leader. The new coach sees Mbeumo as the crucial link to unite the restructured squad.
By entrusting Mbeumo with the armband, Cameroon is signaling a commitment to a new generation of talent. The mantle of Cameroon AFCON Captain places immense pressure on the Manchester United star, but his appointment confirms his status as the most critical player in the nation’s bid for a record sixth continental title.
