News Focus
- Eric Djemba-Djemba reveals how FC Nantes’ strict discipline shaped his Cameroon youth academy
- Former Manchester United midfielder shares emotional tribute to late teammate Marc-Vivien Foé
- Only 15 out of 100 academy players turn professional, says Cameroon legend
- 2003 Confederations Cup tragedy remembered as Foé’s human values live on
In an exclusive discussion with Get French Football News, former Cameroon international Eric Djemba-Djemba reflected on his journey from the pitches of FC Nantes and Manchester United to his current mission developing young talent back home. The 42-year-old now runs a football academy in his native country. He wants to create not just professional players, but responsible young men.
Djemba-Djemba opened the academy five years ago. He immediately introduced a strict rule from his time at Nantes’ famous youth centre. Every morning, children must make their beds before coming to train. “It is part of learning to have discipline,” he explained. The former midfielder also demands strong school performance. If a child works hard in class, they earn their place on the pitch.
“If you’re diligent at school, you’re going to be diligent in life,” he stated. The academy teaches respect for teammates and teachers. Djemba-Djemba believes these values open doors. A humble player gets chances from coaches. A lazy, grumpy player does not.
He keeps realistic expectations. Out of one hundred academy players, perhaps only fifteen will turn professional. “If you don’t manage to turn professional, at the very least you will do another job but do it with good values,” he said.
The conversation turned to the 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup. During that tournament, Djemba-Djemba lost his close friend and teammate Marc-Vivien Foé. The midfielder collapsed in the semi-final and died. Foé led that Cameroon squad through respect rather than the official captaincy.
“Rigobert Song wore the armband, but everyone listened to Marc-Vivien,” Djemba-Djemba recalled. Foé chose his words carefully and spoke rarely. When he did give his opinion, the entire squad followed his guidance. “He possessed exceptional character and kindness,” he added.
The death shocked football worldwide. Djemba-Djemba remembers Thierry Henry crying during the final. “It was really a huge loss for a lot of people,” he said. Keeping Foé’s memory alive remains important. “Talking about him fills me with a lot of pride because I knew him and I shared the pitch with him.”