Senegal international Édouard Mendy has launched a scathing criticism of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), intensifying the growing tensions surrounding the ongoing AFCON dispute.
Speaking in the wake of the controversial decision that has left Senegal’s status as African champions unresolved, Mendy did not hold back in his assessment of the continent’s football leadership. The goalkeeper expressed frustration over what he described as CAF’s inability to match the rapid progress of African football with effective governance.
“I am not surprised coming from an institution like CAF, which unfortunately does not move forward as fast as its football does,” Mendy said. He went on to highlight the efforts of African players and professionals globally, insisting that their dedication contrasts sharply with the shortcomings of those in charge.
The former Chelsea FC shot-stopper pointed to a deeper structural issue within CAF, blaming a small group of decision-makers for what he perceives as a decline in standards. “There is a small group of people who decide the fate of our sport on this continent… people who are simply not up to the task,” he added.
Mendy further suggested that the current crisis surrounding AFCON is not an isolated incident, but rather the culmination of long-standing governance concerns. “This is not only since this Africa Cup (2025). Let’s say this AFCON was the final straw,” he stated, hinting at broader dissatisfaction within the football community.
Perhaps most striking was his call for reform. The Senegalese international urged CAF to undertake a comprehensive review of its structures and leadership, warning that the organisation risks damaging the global perception of African football. “It is clear that in the coming weeks or months, this institution will have to question itself and carry out a clear overhaul,” Mendy concluded.
His remarks add significant weight to the ongoing debate, as pressure continues to mount on CAF to address internal criticisms while the case remains under review by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
