By Leo-Paul
Former emblematic captain of the Cameroon’s senior football team, Rigobert Song has been appointed Head Couch of the Indomitable Lions.
The appointment which was made public moments ago comes days after rumours had swept across the social media that Song was going to be given the top coaching job.
Sports and Physical Education Minister, Chief Prof Nacisse Muelle Kombi in a release dated Sunday February 28, 2022 made the news public.
The development ends what had been weeks of speculations around the managerial position of the Indomitable Lions’ Squad.
The appointment means Song has become the first local official Head Coach of the national men’s football team of Cameroon.
Many see in the appointment an opportunity for the iconic player to use his leadership, and stir the Lions up to the top just like in the early 2000s.
For a team that has for long lacked in identity and character, many also say, Song is a square peck in a square hole – the right hole as Cameroon navigates its route back to the top.
Song is admired by many as Cameroon’s ultimate football legend. He is in the class of the likes of Samuel Eto’o, and Milla Roger. The former captain has the daunting task to deliver results and end years of waiting for a return to football glory.
Rigobert Song’s appointment comes at a time when football lovers have doubled their cry for a local coach, especially after the exploits of Senegal’s Alliou Cissé, with the Teranga Lions.
This outcry has also been backed with records of local predecessors like Olympic Gold medalist Jean-Paul Akono, and Alexander Belinga.
However, the new coach’s relatively little experience in management will give others something to think about.
It took Senegal’s Alliou Cissé close to 10 years of management for him to land the country’s first AFCON title. Cameroonians by default have not proven to be that patient.
His baptism of fire is to qualify Cameroon for the FIFA2022 world cup in Qatar. Cameroon will play against Algeria in the knockout games to take place in the coming days.
Song Guarantee of a Promising Future for Cameroon Football?
Rigobert Song’s appointment will spark debates. But there is no denying the fact that his appointment is a step closer to bringing football back to the experts.
Over the years, the national team has been seen by many as having been heavily politicized. Current and former players have found themselves alienated from the team. Most of the players have blamed the system for being overly corrupt and unprofessional.
Since the start of the year, however, football lovers have expressed optimism that the appointment of Samuel Eto’o Fils as FECAFOOT president will end such practices.
The coaching staff of Rigobert Song is comprised of former Indomitable Lions players like Raymond Kalla, and Souleymanou. With this, many say means the national team is now in the hands of former players and legends who understand the challenges of the time.
(C) Mimi Mefo Info
Indomitable Lions:
Can Rigobert Song deliver off pitch like he did on the pitch?
