ZIFA Launches Another Move For Liverpool Starlet Isaac Mabaya To Play For Zimbabwe Warriors

Zimbabwe Launches Another Move For Liverpool Starlet Isaac Mabaya

In a major new development for Zimbabwean football, the Zimbabwe Football Association has launched a fresh move to secure the international future of Liverpool’s rising talent, Isaac Mabaya. The Warriors are making another determined push to convince the 21-year-old defender, currently starring on loan at Wigan Athletic, to pledge his allegiance to the nation of his parents’ birth.

The news follows a pivotal meeting between national team coach Marian Marinica and the player himself. This personal approach, reported by ZimSports Connect, marks a significant escalation in ZIFA’s long-term efforts to bring the promising right-back into the fold.

A Personal Touch From The Boss

This latest campaign is being led from the front by Warriors coach Marian Marinica. The Romanian tactician took the initiative to meet directly with Mabaya, presenting the case for representing Zimbabwe on the international stage. This personal pitch underscores the importance ZIFA places on recruiting the Liverpool academy product, who has represented England at various youth levels but remains eligible for the Warriors.

Mabaya, who joined Liverpool at the age of six, is currently gaining crucial first-team experience following a season-long loan move at Wigan Athletic which was confirmed on 1 August 2025.

A Player Poised For The Big Time

The object of ZIFA’s desire is widely regarded as a star in the making. Mabaya made his competitive senior debut for Liverpool in an Emirates FA Cup clash against Plymouth Argyle in February 2025 and has trained extensively with the club’s first team.

His potential has been loudly praised by his club managers. Wigan Athletic’s Head Coach, Ryan Lowe, was effusive when signing the player last summer:

“I’ve known of Isaac for many years – he’s had a few injuries, but feels like he’s back to where he belongs. I nearly signed him when I was at Preston North End, knowing his pedigree and what he’s about – he’s a powerful right wing-back who will definitely give us something down the right-hand side.”

This is not the first time Zimbabwe has attempted to call up Mabaya. He received a call-up to the senior squad in November 2023 for FIFA World Cup qualifiers under then-coach Baltemar Brito, though he did not ultimately feature.

This new, direct approach from Marinica represents a renewed and more concerted effort to finally secure his signature for the Warriors.

The International Tug-of-War Awaits

All eyes are now on Isaac Mabaya’s decision. Will the Preston-born defender choose the path of his heritage and embrace a key role in the Zimbabwean national team’s future, or will he hold out for a potential senior call from England? ZIFA’s latest move has set the stage for a compelling international recruitment battle, with the Warriors hopeful that their persistent efforts will finally pay off.