Benoit Assou Ekotto, the Cameroonian legend and former Tottenham defender, has expressed his satisfaction with representing the Cameroonian National Team over the French National Team.
He stated that he is immensely proud to play for his country and his heritage. While acknowledging that some of his teammates who chose France over Africa might have more money, he emphasizes that he has pride.
Ekotto believes that while money is a significant factor in modern football, playing for the country you love is ultimately the most rewarding.
He explained that he chose to represent Africa when he was a child, making it a matter of his heart rather than financial gain.
Read what he said during an interview with Ade Divine on Investir au Cameroun,
“When I chose Cameroon, did the French team want me? I never was at the disposal of their pre-selections and junior teams.
I didn’t have the time for it. And why? Very young, I already knew that I did not want to play for the French team. Many binationals complete their classes with the French team but claim they choose from the heart to play with African countries (Laughs).
You have to tell yourself the truth. They lie. If they had had the opportunity to play for France, from a business point of view, it would be extraordinary. Most of the guys in the French team have… millions per year. Why play for their junior teams if your heart is for Cameroon, Zambia or Nigeria? I decided to play with Cameroon at a very young age. I had nothing to do with the French team.
I have never regretted this choice, except for the money because I play for the money. I play to put my family in the best conditions. But I prefer to be like that.”
The 40-year-old came up through Lens, he made his debut in 2004. In 2006, he was signed by Tottenham Hotspur.
He made 200 appearances across all competitions for Tottenham Hotspur. He was loaned to Queens Park Rangers in 2013 and released in 2015, after which he joined Saint-Étienne. The final club of his career was Ligue 1 club Metz.
He represented the Cameroon national team at the international level. He participated in two FIFA World Cup tournaments.
