Full Breakdown
Samuel Eto’o Faces Probe Over Alleged €567,000 Payment From Russian Federation
By Drooid · · How we work
Allegations and Call for Investigation
The Association of Amateur Football Clubs of Cameroon (ACFAC) has demanded a formal probe into the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) and its president, former striker Samuel Eto’o. ACFAC alleges that the Russian Football Union transferred roughly €567,000 (about $655,000) into a bank account belonging to Eto’o rather than FECAFOOT’s official account in connection with a friendly match played in October 2023. The association says the transfer breached the terms of the agreement between the two football bodies and warrants scrutiny of how the money was authorised and handled.
Background of the Dispute
According to reports cited by The Times and reproduced by Al Jazeera, the payment was intended as appearance fees for the Cameroon-Russia friendly. Files seen by the newspaper indicate that two separate payments were directed to an account held by Eto’o at Qatar National Bank in Doha. Former FECAFOOT executives claim they were forced out of the federation after raising concerns and that they filed complaints with FIFA’s ethics committee more than a year ago, receiving no substantive update.
Responses and Denials
Eto’o has publicly denied all allegations. He also reiterated his support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, stating that Infantino “hasn’t done anything wrong” amid broader criticism of the FIFA chief. FECAFOOT has not responded to Al Jazeera’s request for comment, and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not replied to inquiries about the matter.
Potential Legal Actions
ACFAC announced plans to file a lawsuit against Eto’o in Cameroonian courts and a separate legal complaint against the Russian Football Union in Russia. No court findings have been issued, and the allegations remain unproven pending investigation.
Implications for Cameroonian Football
If investigated, the case could intensify scrutiny of FECAFOOT’s financial management and affect Eto’o’s standing within African football governance. The controversy adds to a series of disciplinary issues involving Eto’o, including prior suspensions by CAF and FIFA for alleged misconduct.