Eto’ó targets Cameroon FA presidency

YAOUNDE. — Former Cameroon international Samuel Eto’o is to stand as a candidate in the race for the presidency of his country’s football federation.

The former Barcelona and Inter Milan star made the announcement on his social media pages on Tuesday evening, saying he had taken the decision “out of love for Cameroon and passion for our football.”

“Time is running out. Waiting is not an option. It is time to rebuild our football,” Eto’o said. “(I’m) driven by the conviction that those who have the necessary means, and resources to develop our football, must take off their hats of kingmakers, to become the actors of its development.

“In 2000, our team was African champion. “In 2008, it reached the final before completely leaving the scene, after two promising World Cup finals.

“Such a project, and a vision, need dedicated, committed and hardworking people.

“That is why I am presenting my candidacy, with the groundbreaking commitment not to pocket a cent of the monthly allowances, provided for the position of federation president.

“hese funds will be allocated for the development of amateur football, based on a mechanism adopted by the members, of the general assembly. “I am running for this position in order to attract external funding, and not to reduce the already meagre revenues, with unnecessary burdens.’’

The delayed Fecafoot elections are expected to take place on December 11, with the Africa Cup of Nations set to start in Cameroon on January 9. Fecafoot have not announced when they will will release the final list of eligible candidates who can run for the presidency.

Eto’o (40) had an illustrious playing career, winning domestic and European titles in both Spain and Italy.

The four-time African Player of the Year is his country’s record scorer with 56 goals in 118 games.

He also enjoyed brief stints in the English Premier League with Chelsea and Everton, ending his playing career in Qatar.

At international level, he helped Cameroon win the Africa Cup of Nations in 2000 and 2002 and was a gold medallist at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.