Jérôme Onguéné Departs Eintracht Frankfurt After Injury-Plagued Tenure

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – 27-year-old Cameroonian Jérôme Junior Onguéné has officially parted ways with German Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt, after an injury-plagued campaign which saw him fail to make a single appearance for the club.

The club announced the mutual termination of his contract, wishing the 27-year-old defender success in his future endeavours. “Eintracht Frankfurt and the centre-back have ended their working relationship with immediate effect. Eintracht Frankfurt would like to wish Jérôme all the best for the future,” the club said.

Once regarded as one of Cameroon’s promising defensive talents, the Mbalmayo native’s time at Frankfurt, which began in 2022, was marred by injuries and misfortune. He failed to make a single first-team appearance during his tenure, with recurring fitness issues and unsuccessful loan spells at Servette (Switzerland) and Red Bull Salzburg (Austria) derailing his career trajectory.

When Onguéné signed with Eintracht Frankfurt, expectations were high. The defender had showcased immense potential during his time at Red Bull Salzburg, where he won five Austrian Bundesliga titles and three Austrian Cups. However, a series of injuries prevented him from replicating that form in Germany.

Onguéné’s loan to Servette in Switzerland in 2023 was intended to reignite his career, but he struggled for form and fitness, making just 2 appearances for Servette. His return to Salzburg in 2023 also failed to yield significant playing time.

Since his last appearance for Cameroon during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Onguéné has faced a challenging period, with his once-bright career seemingly slipping out of his grasp.

Now a free agent, Onguéné’s next move will be crucial in determining whether he can revive his career. At 27, the defender is at a pivotal stage in his career, and the upcoming transfer window offers him a chance to re-establish himself as a reliable presence on the pitch.

For Onguéné, a return to consistent football could also reopen the door to international duty with Cameroon. With the Indomitable Lions preparing for crucial competitions in 2025, a rejuvenated Onguéné could re-enter the conversation for selection if he regains form.

Born in Mbalmayo, Onguéné’s journey in football began with high hopes. He rose through the ranks of the French football system, featuring for Sochaux and later RB Salzburg, where he gained international attention for his defensive prowess.

His performances for Cameroon, particularly during the 2021 AFCON, further cemented his reputation as a solid defender with potential. However, the past two years have been a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of a football career.