ZIFA Breaks Silence on Tawanda Chirewa’s Departure Amid Chaos Claims in Warriors Camp

ZIFA Clears the Air on Tawanda Chirewa’s Departure Amid Warriors Camp Turmoil Reports

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has issued an official statement clarifying the status of midfielder Tawanda Chirewa following reports suggesting turmoil within the Warriors camp and alleged fallout with new head coach Marian Marinica.

Reports of Revolt and Player Walkouts

Claims circulated on Thursday alleging that the Warriors camp had plunged into disarray after the 3–1 defeat to Algeria, with reports stating that Tawanda Chirewa and Tawanda Maswanhise walked out of camp in protest.

The same reports alleged that Marinica had sidelined senior players Marvellous Nakamba and Divine Lunga, intensifying tensions within the squad.

Sources had described the atmosphere as “combative and draining,” with players reportedly losing trust in Marinica’s tactical approach and leadership style.

ZIFA Issues Official Clarification

In response, ZIFA released a statement addressing the speculation and confirming that Chirewa’s departure was planned and approved before he joined camp.

According to the association, Chirewa was “granted permission to leave the national team camp” following a formal request from his club, Wolverhampton Wanderers, who wanted him assessed by their new technical team ahead of the upcoming season.

“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) wishes to inform the nation. the media fraternity, and all that midfielder Tawanda Chirewa has been granted permission to leave the national team camp, as had been agreed prior to the player joining the camp. This decision was reached with the full blessing and consent of ZIFA, after Wolverhampton Wanderers formally requested an opportunity for the player to be assessed by their new technical team as part of their internal preparations for the season ahead.”

ZIFA stressed that this was not a withdrawal and not connected to any dispute, emphasising that the arrangement was mutually agreed to by all parties.

“ZIFA emphasises that this development is not a withdrawal, nor does it reflect any dispute or disagreement. Instead, it represents a professional and mutually respectful alignment between the national association and the player’s parent club, an alignment that prioritises the athlete’s long-term development while safeguarding Zimbabwe’s national football interests.”