Chirewa pulls out of Zimbabwe Warriors camp in Saudi Arabia amid reports of ‘scuffle’ with coach
SAUDI ARABIA – Zimbabwe Warriors attacking midfielder Tawanda Chirewa has withdrawn from the national team camp in Saudi Arabia, with reports suggesting he had a ‘scuffle’ with new coach Mariana ‘Mario’ Marinica.
· Nehanda RadioThe Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster is said to have purchased his own flight back to the United Kingdom after alleged tension with the Romanian coach.
“Chirewa was not happy with the coach’s treatment, so he opted to buy his own ticket and left Saudi Arabia,” said sources familiar with the situation.
His departure comes during the international break as the Warriors prepare to face Qatar on Monday.
However, amid reports of unhappiness in camp, ZIFA has issued a clarification.
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In a statement, the association said: “The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform the nation, the media fraternity, and all stakeholders that midfielder Tawanda Chirewa has been granted permission to leave the national team camp, as had been agreed prior to the player joining the camp.
“This decision was reached with the full blessing and consent of ZIFA, after Wolverhampton Wanderers formally requested an opportunity for the player to be assessed by their new technical team as part of their internal preparations for the season ahead.”
ZIFA stressed that the move should not be construed as a withdrawal or a fallout.
“ZIFA emphasises that this development is not a withdrawal, nor does it reflect any dispute or disagreement.
‘Instead, it represents a professional and mutually respectful alignment between the national association and the player’s parent club—an alignment that prioritises the athlete’s long-term development while safeguarding Zimbabwe’s national football interests.”
The statement added that the Warriors remain focused as preparations for upcoming international assignments intensify and thanked supporters for their continued passion and commitment to the national cause.
Chirewa came in as a substitute and scored during yesterday’s 3-1 defeat to Algeria.