Cameroon Calling: Etta Eyong Waves Goodbye to Levante for AFCON Adventure
Levante's star striker Etta Eyong departs for AFCON duty with Cameroon, potentially missing up to six matches during a crucial period for the Valencia club.
Levante’s Goal Machine Answers Africa’s Call
As the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end - even if it’s just temporary. Levante’s deadly finisher Etta Eyong has packed his bags and jetted off to represent Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving a massive hole in the Granota attack at a pivotal moment in their campaign.
The Timeline
Eyong departed on Monday (December 15th) following FIFA’s official mandate that all players report for AFCON duty at this time, despite some national teams pushing for earlier releases. The tournament schedule means he’ll be absent until at least December 31st, but could potentially be away until January 18th if Cameroon reaches the final.
Matches Affected
The striker will definitely miss:
- Cultural Leonesa (Copa del Rey)
- Real Sociedad (La Liga)
And potentially:
- Sevilla
- Espanyol
- Real Madrid (at the Bernabéu)
- The rescheduled Villarreal match (likely January 7th or 8th)
The Villarreal Clause Drama
Eyong’s departure comes after a week of media attention surrounding a curious contract clause. Levante would have had to pay his former club Villarreal if he had featured against them in the scheduled match last weekend. Talk about a right pickle! Fortunately for Levante’s accountants, the match was postponed due to a weather red alert in the region.
Goalscoring Form
Losing Eyong is a proper blow for Levante. The forward has been in sparkling form this season:
- 5 goals in 12 La Liga appearances for Levante
- Plus 1 goal for Villarreal against Real Oviedo before his transfer
Parting Promise
Despite the disappointment of his absence, Eyong left Levante fans with some reassuring words during a signing session at the club’s official store opening. With his trademark relaxed demeanor, he told supporters not to worry, promising he’d “score more goals after the Africa Cup of Nations.”
For now, Levante will have to find their goals elsewhere as their main man goes off to pursue continental glory with the Indomitable Lions.