The Cameroonian international striker, Samuel Eto’o, has represented big European giants such as FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Chelsea as a player. He has had an illustrious career for both his club and national team.
The 42-year-old is the all-time top scorer for the Cameroon national team. He is currently serving as the president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) since December 2021 and has recently been in the news over alleged involvement in a match-fixing controversy.
Samuel Eto’o being investigated by police
The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker is allegedly charged with match-fixing allegations, and it is claimed he played a key role in the incident despite being at a higher authority within the football federation.
According to reports, the Cameroon Police have started an investigation, taking into consideration all the claims against the Barcelona legend Eto’o. It is believed that Eto’o helped Victoria United be promoted to the first-division league.
Recently leaked audio recordings imply the involvement of the ex-Barcelona star in a match-fixing scandal within Cameroon’s second-tier football league. The recordings, featuring a conversation with a person identified as Valentine Nkwain, president of Victoria United and known as ‘Bobdidy,’ have stirred controversy.
Police authorities have confirmed that they are investigating alleged ‘abuse of authority and corruption’ against Eto’o. They have already questioned a few of the witnesses involved in the case, who are suggested to be key players in the investigation.
Whereas, Samuel Eto’o defended his side and denied all the accusations of corruption and fixing.
Eto’o said, “Talking to a friend, someone who invests in football and wants to make his club one of the best in Cameroon. I just reassured him by saying that I would have done everything possible to avoid any refereeing errors against him.”
Eto’o got involved in altercation with Qatar WC
This is not the first time Eto’o has been involved in controversy. Last year, during the FIFA Qatar World Cup, he was captured on camera striking a photographer on the head with his knee.
The Cameroonian legend was in attendance at Brazil’s round of 16 fixture against South Korea. After the match, he got into an argument with a cameraman outside the venue, which quickly escalated into a violent scuffle.
Nevertheless, all these incidents and allegations could tarnish his reputation as a legend. He might have to step down from the presidency of the Cameroon Football Federation due to the following incidents.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing investigation on Samuel Eto’o? Do you think he was actually involved in match-fixing? Share with us below.
