Samuel Eto'o faces probe over alleged Russia payment in Cameroon FA

Former international forward Samuel Eto’o, who captained both Chelsea and Barcelona, is now the subject of a criminal investigation concerning alleged embezzlement of funds while serving as president of the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT). The probe was initiated by Cameroon’s anti‑corruption unit after a whistle‑blower report raised concerns that public money earmarked for football development projects had been diverted.

Investigators are examining transactions linked to contracts awarded between 2021 and 2023, focusing on payments that, according to preliminary findings, may not correspond to delivered services or goods. FECAFOOT officials have confirmed that the federation is cooperating with authorities and have suspended Eto’o from certain administrative duties pending the outcome of the inquiry. Eto’o, through his legal counsel, denied any wrongdoing and asserted that the allegations are unfounded, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and the sport’s growth in Cameroon.

The case adds to a series of governance challenges facing African football bodies and could affect FECAFOOT’s upcoming projects and international engagements. Authorities have indicated that the investigation will proceed in accordance with national law, and a final report is expected later this year, which will determine whether formal charges will be filed against Eto’o.