Jean II Makoun announces Cameroon retirement

Stade Rennais’ Cameroonian midfielder Jean II Makoun has announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday.

The 31-year old called time on an eleven-year Cameroon career, which earned him 68 caps since 19 November 2003 and a first appearance with the Indomitable Lions against Japan.

Dropped by national coach Volker Finke for Cameroon’s first two Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2015 qualifiers against DR Congo and Côte d’Ivoire, Makoun insisted that he had taken the decision before the World Cup already.

“The Indomitable Lions, that’s over. I am putting an end to my international career. I will remain Cameroon’s number one fan, but I am moving on,” Makoun told Jeune Afrique on Tuesday.

“I made my choice before (being dropped for the Afcon qualifiers). Even if everything had gone well at the World Cup, if I had enjoyed more game time, I would have decided not to play anymore for Cameroon.

“I have not been called-up by Volker Finke for the two September matches, but if it had been the case, I would have informed him of my decision.

“It has been almost eleven years (with Cameroon). I had very good times, but I am getting tired. The issues of bonuses, organisation became part of our daily lives and it is difficult to handle. I have the feeling that we are going backwards and not moving forward.”

Also dropped for the Afcon qualifiers, charismatic skipper Samuel Eto’o, who has just joined Everton on a two-year deal, is yet to bring the light on his international future, but could follow in the footsteps of his teammate according to Makoun.

“I think he will soon share his personal thoughts. I am not in his shoes, I don’t know what his intentions are, but I would not be surprised if he decides not to play anymore for Cameroon.”