TOGO: UNCERTAINTY SURROUNDS EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR’S PARTICIPATION AGAINST DJIBOUTI
Togo’s star striker Emmanuel Adebayor Sheyi may not feature in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Djibouti on September 4th, as tensions escalate between the player and the Togolese Football Federation (FTF).
Head coach Tom Saintfiet revealed during a press conference that Adebayor is the only player who has yet to respond to the national team call-up. The Belgian coach has issued an ultimatum, stating:
“Adebayor is the only player who has not responded to the call-up. We are giving him until Saturday noon to make a decision.”
TRANSFER WINDOW AND INTERNAL STRUGGLES
Adebayor, who scored the decisive goal in Togo’s 2-1 victory over Liberia in the opening qualifier, is reportedly focused on securing a move away from Tottenham Hotspur, with Aston Villa and West Ham expressing interest. The uncertainty surrounding his club future has added to his hesitation in joining the national team.
But the problem runs deeper. Adebayor has had repeated clashes with both the technical staff and the FTF’s normalization committee. According to an official warning letter, the striker:
Opposed the removal of the captain’s armband, now worn by Mathieu Dossevi
Allegedly attempted to assault the FTF’s Director of Communications
Made accusations against the FTF President and the Minister of Sports
Refused a handshake from the Minister after the Liberia win
The FTF warned that any repeat of such behavior would result in more severe sanctions.
ADEBAYOR: “I PREFER TO LEAVE THE TEAM”
The former Arsenal and Manchester City forward is also demanding clarity from the coach:
“For now, I don’t know. I’m going to talk with the coach. I want to know if he wants me in the team or not,” Adebayor said.
He further added:
“I’ve been captain of this team for 7 or 8 years, and one morning I was told I can’t wear this armband. That means we can go to Djibouti, and the coach will put me in the stands. In these conditions, I prefer to leave the team before I’m sidelined.”
A DECISION PENDING
As the deadline approaches, the Hawks await a final decision from their talisman. His absence could significantly impact Togo’s ambitions, but his inclusion under strained conditions might be just as disruptive.
