Benjamin Moukandjo, who captained Cameroon to triumph at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, has retired from the team at the age of 29 due to issues with current coach Clarence Seedorf.
Responding to a question why Moukandjo was left out of the Indomitable Lions’ recent squad against Comoros, Seedorf said ‘young and good footballers don’t ply their trade in China.’
Moukandjo plays as a midfielder at Chinese club Beijing Renhe on loan from another Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Suning.
“I realised that I was not invited for the Indomitable Lions Afcon preparation game. I also consider the statements of the national coach Mr. Clarence Seedorf as disrespectful and unfair to me,” Moukandjo said.
“As the captain who led the team to win the 2017 Afcon, I was not even called by the new coach. He completely ignored me.
“In my soul and conscience, I have decided to retire from the national team of Cameroon.
“I remain proud of years with the Indomitable Lions and thank all my teammates, and those who supported and trusted me. I wish good luck to my team-mates who will be defending the Lions at the next Afcon,” he said.
Cameroon qualify automatically as hosts of tournament.
