Cameroon midfielder Martin Hongla has revealed his disappointment with the national team and coaching staff following the recent loss of his father.
In an interview on CFOOT’s “Onze Entrant,” Hongla hinted at potential rifts within the national team and shed light on his struggles during a challenging period.
Hongla, known for his prowess on the field, expressed the profound pain of feeling abandoned after the passing of his father early this year.
“The national team is like a family for me,” he said, his voice trembling.
“But when I lost my father, I didn’t see anyone there for me. I felt alone when I needed my second family the most.”
During this difficult time, Hongla found solace in the support of goalkeeper Andre Onana, who went to great lengths, leaving his club to be by his side.
Notably, Onana was the sole player visibly present during Hongla’s mourning, leaving the absence of others unexplained.
The midfielder acknowledged posting a cryptic social media message about “rain on every roof,” clarifying that it stemmed from a sense of isolation.
“Maybe they had other problems I wasn’t aware of,” he conceded.
“But that’s the truth. I have no personal issues with anyone in the team or staff. My message wasn’t an attack; it came from a place of deep hurt. A man, a child even, needs his second family when he loses his father.”
Adding to the complexity of the narrative, Hongla addressed accusations of tribalism within the team, vehemently denying any personal bias.
“I’m not tribalistic,” he declared. “That’s ridiculous. We are all Cameroonians here, so rather than dividing us over such things, we should be working together toward a common goal.
However, Hongla’s absence from the recent national team list for the upcoming AFCON games in Ivory Coast intensified his emotional struggle.
While acknowledging the coach’s prerogative, he admitted that the exclusion stung.
“It’s a shame,” he remarked, a hint of resignation in his voice.
“It hurts, but that’s sports. There are tough times.”
Despite this setback, he affirmed his commitment to working hard and earning his place back in the team.
Sports journalist, Marc Chouamo, provided insights into possible disciplinary issues, citing Hongla’s deliberate absence from the national team’s gathering last June in the USA.
Reports suggested that, despite FECAFOOT covering the entire trip’s expenses, Hongla opted to relax in nightclubs around Douala instead.
Hongla’s recent social media activities also stirred controversy, especially a revelation about their family’s practice of not marrying outside their tribe.
This revelation sparked discussions online, adding another layer to Hongla’s public persona.
As fans speculate on the impact of Hongla’s absence on the AFCON 2022 games, his remarkable performances this season for Hellas Verona in Serie A add anticipation to the unfolding narrative.
