By Tata Mbunwe
The newly appointed Indomitable Lions Coach, Rigobert Song Bahanag, has made his first public statement on his new job, promising to put in all his best and to write a new page for the team.
He said he will need the support and prayers of all Cameroonians as he embraces the top job.
“Beyond the privilege and the joy that pleases me, I measure the sense of the responsibilities that are entrusted to me. I would give my all as I did as a player and captain of the selection to deserve the confidence that Cameroon State gives me, the President of FECAFOOT, Samuel Eto’o and it’s executive committee,” he said in a Facebook post.
The former Indomitable Lions Captain was appointed coach yesterday, February 28, to replace Antonio Conceicao who has coached the team for two years.
Song’s appointment was confirmed in separate releases from FECAFOOT President Samuel Eto’o and Sports Minister Narcise Mouele Kombi, after widely circulated rumours about him becoming coach.
“Cameroon and the Indomitable Lions jersey gave me everything. I am grateful. I am honoured I have been chosen to frame Cameroon’s fanon selection,” he said.
He added that he will need support and prayers if he must “write a new page” for the Indomitable Lions. “Thank you all for your messages of congratulations and encouragement. My staff and I need support and prayers of millions of Cameroonians to write new pages of the mythical history of the Indomitable Lions.”
Since his appointment, congratulatory messages have poured from Cameroonians, including some celebrities who have flashbacked to the courageous play style he invested during his days with the Indomitable Lions.
“Congratulations to captain courageous and unbeatable Rigobert Song Bahanag,” said popular Cameroonian musician Tenor.
Also reacting to the appointment, musician Salatiel said, “Congratulations Capi Rigobert Song Bahanag. Respect!!”
The 45-year-old Song is known for his charismatic play style when he played for the Cameroon national team between 1993 and 2010, when he officially resigned from the pitch.
He has also played for remarkable European clubs such as Liverpool (1999-2000); Wes Ham (2000-2002); Lens (2002-2004); Salernitana (1998) among others.
He now manages the national team while his former team mate Samuel Eto’o manages the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT.