Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT), has voiced strong criticism of FIFA regarding the proposed change to hold the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years instead of every two.
Eto’o described the shift as primarily serving European interests rather than those of African football. The debate over AFCON’s scheduling has intensified in recent weeks.
As a former African Footballer of the Year and Cameroon legend, Eto’o joined the growing voices questioning the move during an appearance on the “AFCON Debate” programme. 
He asked:
“Is it in the interest of Africans to host an AFCON every four years? I think it’s more in the interest of the Europeans.”
Eto’o argued that European clubs would benefit most from the change, as it would mean fewer interruptions for African stars like Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who would be available more consistently for their clubs.
He further stated that FIFA prioritizes the interests of European clubs in its decisions.
While recognizing the existing partnership between FIFA and CAF, Eto’o commented that FIFA President Gianni Infantino could have approached the matter with more tact, saying:
“There’s a win-win partnership between FIFA and CAF. I’m close to Gianni Infantino and Ahmad. But I think Gianni Infantino lacked tact.”
These remarks add to the ongoing discussions among African football stakeholders about the future of the continent’s premier tournament and potential impacts on its development.