Malian captain Hamari Traoré has broken his silence over his strained relationship with the Malian Football Federation (Femafoot), addressing the controversy that has clouded his national team future and expressing hope for a potential return.
The Real Sociedad right-back, who has earned 58 caps and represented Mali in four consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (2017, 2019, 2021, 2023), found himself at odds with the federation following his public criticism of its handling of the Eagles’ travel arrangements for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers last June.
The logistical chaos during the team’s trip to Madagascar drew the ire of Traoré, who openly called on the federation to “take their responsibilities,” sparking tensions that culminated in his suspension.
The fallout from his comments nearly led to a collective player boycott of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, underlining the depth of discontent within the squad.
However, despite the initial standoff, Traoré was recalled to the national setup in September 2024 by new coach Tom Saintfiet. Unfortunately, a ruptured cruciate ligament sidelined the defender, preventing his return to the pitch and forcing him into a lengthy recovery.
Now, months into his rehabilitation, Traoré has finally addressed the saga during an appearance on the Talents d’Afrique show, offering insights into his ongoing dialogue with the national team and the federation.
Open Lines of Communication, But No Resolution Yet
Traoré revealed that while there has been contact with coach Saintfiet, no substantial discussions about his reintegration into the squad have occurred.
“As I said, I am very honest. The coach wrote to me when I was injured. He sent me a message saying he wants to see me with the president of the federation when I am fit. Today, we did not discuss anything,” Traoré explained.
Despite this limited communication, the former Rennes captain remains open to a return, though he emphasized that meaningful talks have yet to take place.
No Regrets Over Federation Criticism
Reflecting on the events that led to his suspension, Traoré stood by his decision to speak out against Femafoot, maintaining that his actions were motivated by a deep commitment to improving the conditions for Malian football.
“You know, it’s not just in the last few months, but I learned a lot from that [the clash with Femafoot], and I will continue what is good to do for Mali. I don’t regret anything.
I did it in all conscience. If I had to do it again, I would do it again. I did it with love for my country, so that things could move forward,” he stated.
Traoré also stressed that his criticism was not a personal vendetta but a collective call for reform, highlighting the unity within the team during the crisis.
“All the players posted a message. There, it wasn’t me, but a group, a group that wanted change, that wanted to give something for its people who need it so much,” he said.
Hopes for Mali’s Future on the Continental and Global Stage
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his return, Traoré remains optimistic about Mali’s potential in upcoming competitions. With the 2025 AFCON and 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, he believes the current generation has what it takes to make history.
“We really hope to do something great for the World Cup and for the upcoming AFCON. We have the means, the players we need. I have the impression that Mali can do something great at the AFCON,” Traoré declared.
His words will undoubtedly reignite hope among Malian fans eager to see the influential right-back don the national colors once more.
Yet, whether Traoré and Femafoot can reconcile their differences remains to be seen. For now, the door remains open, with both sides needing to bridge the divide for the good of Malian football.
Hamari Traore s’exprime pour la première fois sur ses rapports avec l’Equipe nationale, le staff et ses coéquipiers ainsi sur les ambitions du Mali à la prochaine CAN et revient sur le passage de la grève 🇲🇱
— Les Aigles Du Mali 🇲🇱🦅 (@AiglesDuMali_) February 25, 2025
