Lameck Banda absence deepens mystery as Lecce await news of Zambia forward

US Lecce are increasingly alarmed by the unexplained absence of Zambia international Lameck Banda, who has failed to report back for pre-season training and has not been in contact with the club for weeks.

The 25-year-old forward has been missing from the Serie A side’s professional squad since 12 July, despite being expected to return for the resumption of training with Lecce’s first team.

Initially, Banda is understood to have cited administrative and logistical issues to explain a short delay to his arrival in Italy. However, as his absence has stretched on, those explanations have given way to serious concern within the club’s hierarchy.

Seen at Lusaka airport but did not board flight

The situation has become more troubling after Banda was seen at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka, Zambia, where he was due to board a flight to Europe.

Witnesses reported his presence at the airport, but he never embarked on the plane that was meant to take him back to join Lecce. Since that point, there has been no public sign of the player and no further communication with his employers.

With the days passing and Lecce’s pre-season preparations nearing their conclusion, officials at the Italian club are still waiting for any formal explanation from Banda regarding his continued absence.

Silence from player as family stay active online

Adding to the sense of confusion around the case, those close to Banda have not offered any clarity on his situation or whereabouts.

On social media, Banda’s wife has continued to post regular photos and updates about her daily life. None of her posts has made reference to her husband’s current situation, nor have they provided any indication of where the forward might be.

Lecce have not publicly disclosed any disciplinary measures or next steps, but the growing silence around Banda’s case has left the club’s management increasingly unsettled as they approach the start of the new season without one of their attacking players.