The issue of dual-nationality players choosing between African and European national teams has been a perennial topic for years. While some believe that players with the option often default to choosing African teams, Benoît Assou-Ekotto has sparked controversy with his outspoken opinion.
The former Cameroonian international suggests that players of African descent should not consider choosing a European team due to the hatred they sometimes face in their country of birth.
The ex-Tottenham defender explains that he clearly chose to represent Cameroon because he was never considered French by some people.
“Why did I choose Cameroon? Whatever you do in France or Europe, it’s like being in a religious and migratory war. When you are tan or black, people don’t necessarily want you here. I’ve always been reminded that I’m not French, and I accepted it. I don’t see the point of proudly wearing the jersey of a national team when you’ve been reminded since childhood that you’re not French.
And then, the more you educate yourself and make observations, you realize that the black man doesn’t really think much. When you read and learn that France committed genocide in Cameroon, how could you proudly wear that jersey?
When you’re Congolese and you play for Belgium while there’s a man who cut off countless hands and feet in Congo… What goes through your mind to proudly wear that jersey? You really have to be stupid,” said Benoît Assou-Ekotto.
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