There is no FRICTION between head coach Mario Marinica and players – Zimbabwe FA clarifies

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has dismissed claims that tensions have emerged between new coach Mario Marinica and some national team players.

Speculation arose after striker and winger Tawanda Chirewa left the national team camp in Saudi Arabia to return to his Premier League club, Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Reports also suggested that Khama Billiat and Marshall Munetsi were excluded from the squad due to disagreements over Marinica’s appointment.

ZIFA, however, clarified that Chirewa’s departure was mutually agreed upon.

“The decision was reached with the full support and consent of ZIFA, following a formal request from Wolverhampton Wanderers for the player to undergo assessment by their new technical team ahead of the upcoming season,” the association said in a statement.

ZIFA added that the move “does not constitute a withdrawal nor indicate any dispute or disagreement. It reflects a professional and respectful understanding between the national association and the player’s club, prioritizing the athlete’s long-term development while safeguarding Zimbabwean football interests.”