The Chipolopolo Boys have responded to Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president Keith Mweemba, asserting that they did not boycott the recent international friendlies but were instead informed that the FAZ executive had cancelled the matches.
Mweemba, during a press briefing at Football House on Friday, claimed that some national team players had boycotted the two friendly matches against Sudan and Tunisia due to unpaid allowances. He expressed disappointment over the incident and warned that those involved risk permanent exclusion from the national team.
The players, however, have clarified that they were officially informed the games had been cancelled, which is why they did not report for camp. The matches were scheduled for June 6 and 10 in Morocco but were cancelled by FAZ, citing player withdrawals and acts of sabotage.
It is worth noting that the players have not received payments for various previous assignments dating back to 2023. A similar standoff occurred ahead of last year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) due to unresolved allowance issues.
In response to Mweemba’s remarks, the players issued a public statement, refuting the claims of a boycott and calling for mutual respect and transparency.
“We, the Senior Men’s National Team, would like to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the people of Zambia. As professional and disciplined athletes, we take immense pride in representing our country. We recognize the honor that comes with wearing the national badge, and we do so with integrity, purpose, and patriotism,” read the statement shared by players including Patson Daka, Kings Kangwa, Edward Chilufya, Emmanuel Banda, Clatous Chama, and Kennedy Musonda, among others.
“We are fully aware of the responsibilities that come with international duty and have consistently strived to uphold the commitments outlined in the FIFA calendar. At the same time, we have a personal responsibility to maintain our physical and mental well-being, especially after the rigors of a demanding season,” it continued.
Players clarify the alleged boycott
The players clarified that locally based team members had traveled to Lusaka as requested, while foreign-based players had made travel arrangements in readiness for the trip.
“In full commitment to the national call-up, locally based players traveled to Lusaka as requested, and our teammates abroad made arrangements to fly in and be ready for the team’s scheduled departure on Monday.
“However, on Monday, we were informed through the team manager, that the trip had been cancelled by the FAZ executive.
“Despite being owed substantial unpaid dues, we have never allowed financial issues to affect our willingness to represent Zambia. We have consistently shown up for the badge, for the fans, and for our country. In turn, we expect mutual respect for our time, our efforts, and our professionalism.
“Following the cancellation, and in the absence of further communication or direction from the Federation, players who had traveled to Lusaka returned to their respective homes to rest and spend valuable time with their families.
“We remain ready and committed to serve when called upon with respect, transparency, and adequate preparation.”
As of now, the Football Association of Zambia has not responded to the players’ statement.
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