Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
The signing ceremony took place today Monday in the presence of the Minister of Sports and Youth, R.S.B.H Doneng Wanzoumon, marking a significant step in the former defender’s coaching career. According to multiple sources, the two-year renewable contract is estimated to be worth over 4 million FCFA. Song is set to lead the Fauves de Bas-Oubangui, with his first challenge being a match against Madagascar on March 17.
Despite the official announcement, his appointment has sparked controversy. Ever since his nomination January, the Central African Football Federation (FCF) and Ministry of Sports have been in an ongoing tension as the FCF clearly stated that it does not recognise his recruitment and only considers Euloge Enza-Yamissi as the legitimate head coach of the national team. Additionally, to highlight the tension, the contract was signed without the presence of FCF officials, raising questions about the validity of his appointment.
So far, the FCF has not released an official statement regarding the contract signing, but it is evident that negotiations will be required to clarify leadership within the national team. A case that it is quite similar to the appointment of Marc Brys as coach of the indomitable Lions that increased tension between the Fecafoot and Ministry of Sports.
Despite the controversy, Rigobert Song faces the immediate task of uniting the team and improving its performance. However, without a clear agreement between the country’s football authorities, his job could be complicated.
The situation remains uncertain for the time being but coming days or weeks will reveal how it unfolds.
