Eto'o urges African federations to back FIFA chief Infantino

Samuel Eto'o has appealed to African football federations to rally behind FIFA President Gianni Infantino's leadership, arguing that the global football body's backing is crucial for the sport's development across the continent.

The legendary striker, who spent much of his career playing in Europe for clubs including Barcelona and Inter Milan, suggested that African football's competitive disadvantage stems partly from financial constraints. Eto'o indicated that higher budgets and greater resources devoted to African football might have persuaded elite players such as Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni to represent African nations rather than competing for European teams.

Eto'o's comments reflect broader concerns about the brain drain affecting African football, where many talented players opt to pursue careers with stronger European clubs and national teams. The former striker's endorsement of Infantino comes as discussions continue about FIFA's role in supporting football development initiatives across Africa.

The remarks underscore the ongoing debate about resource allocation in global football and the efforts required to strengthen competitive capabilities and player retention across the African continent.