Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana will be leading the Indomitable Lions from the back at the 2022 FIFA World Cup to be played in Qatar later this month.
The talented goalie had a tough time last year after he was banned from playing football for nine months after testing positive from a drug that is not allowed to be used in football.
The 26-year-old was disappointed with how his case was handled after admitting that it was a mistake.
“A stupid mistake. There is little humanity in football. We are obviously not allowed to make mistakes and are treated like robots. A hard lesson,” said Onana.
After serving his suspension in November last year, the Ajax number one returned to the club. However, his contract was not extended.
He was linked with Serie A giants Inter Milan towards the end of last season however struggled for some game time in the league with skipper Samir Handanovic in goal. Therefore, he was mostly used in domestic competitions and in the UEFA Champions League.
Onana once turned down a national team call-up ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations finals, where Cameroon were crowned African champions. His reason was he wants to focus more on his club career than on international football.
Years later, he made a U-turn and returned to the Indomitable Lions. With his skill and consistent form, he reclaimed the number one jersey. Since then, Onana has represented his nation at two Cup of Nations finals.
Onana played a huge role in ensuring that Cameroon books a spot in the 2022 World Cup, putting up brilliant saves between the sticks.