Cameroon union concerned by players’ contract problems

Geremi wants to ensure players are treated fairly in Cameroon

Addressing the fact that two-thirds of Cameroon’s local footballers do not have a copy of their contract is a primary concern, says the head of the country’s players’ union.

Sixty-five per cent of players in Cameroon lack such a contract, the worst figure out of 54 nations surveyed by global union FIFPro.

“When you sign a contract, you need to get a copy of your contract – otherwise, you have no rights,” said Geremi Njitap.

The former Cameroon international, who was elected president of the players’ union in November, fears the issue could aid match-fixing and player trafficking.

“It is not fair that footballers sign contracts but don’t have (a copy of) their contracts,” said the former Real Madrid and Chelsea midfielder.

“They have no legal protection. This is one of the major problems for these players.

“This is one of my priorities – to solve this problem.”

Close behind Cameroon when it comes to the number of players lacking a contract copy are Ivory Coast, home to the reigning African champions, and Gabon – with 60% of players in both countries saying they suffer in this way.

Tuesday’s FIFPro survey underscored a raft of problems for the African game, including widespread contract issues, late payments, job insecurity as well as the threat to players of abuse and match-fixing.

Over half the players based in Africa reported payment delays, a figure that …

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