David Pagou, the new Cameroon coach just appointed by the president of the Federation Samuel Eto’o for the 2025 African Cup of Nations, does not lack imagination. Called to replace Marc Brys, who claims not to have received his dismissal letter and even revealed his own list, the Cameroonian has already had to make some changes in his squad. And a new name calls out: Arnaud Mael Kamdem.
The midfielder, who digitally replaces Brice Ambina (Valarenga), is an illustrious unknown. Licensed at Sinop Sport Clube, a 6th division club in Brazil, Mael Kamdem owes his selection above all to his relationship with David Pagou, whom he knew during his time at the Renaissance club of Ngoumou, where the coach officiated. The new coach therefore preferred to rely on a man of confidence rather than an element of superior quality.
However, the choice raises questions. Because Cameroon has never called up a player playing in such a low division of a foreign championship. Currently, Sinop Sport Clube belongs to the 2nd division of the State of Mato Grosso, below Serie D and the State Championship. Mael Kamdem, however, has just arrived from Penarol-AM, who play in the top division.
“The Sinop Sport Clube presents Arnold Mael Kamdem, 25 years old, known for his intensity and his box-to-box performances,” the club wrote upon his arrival. With stints at Peñarol-AM, Tocantinópolis and São Raimundo-AM, the athlete arrives to strengthen the 2026 team.” However, the Brazilians will have to wait until the end of the CAN to witness his performances.
However, this is not the only surprise of the Cameroonian selection. Éric-Maxim Choupo-Moting, André Onana, nor Vincent Aboubakar, three former pillars of Cameroon, are for example not included for the competition in Morocco. Bryan Mbeumo, the star of Manchester United, will however be there.
