While unveiling the Warriors’ final squad for the 35th edition of the tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), coach Marian “Mario” Marinica left out the Wolves forward. Munetsi had picked a calf strain against Nottingham Forest in a Premier League fixture on December 3rd at Molineux Stadium.
The former Reims star, who is the assistant captain for Zimbabwe, has expressed deep disappointment following the decision, and claimed it was done without a follow-up communication.
Munetsi, who has one league, one assist, so far this season from 13 appearances, further clarified the injury was manageable and that his Premier League club had offered medical support through Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), to help him participate in Morocco.
‘I respect the coach’s decisions’
“This one hurts, as representing the Warriors has always been a dream, and wearing our colours is the greatest honour of my career. AFCON would have even been more significant,” Munetsi wrote on his social media pages.
“I had an injury recently, but my club, Wolves, communicated with the association that I was recovering well and even offered medical support to ensure that I could participate at the AFCON. Unfortunately, I received no follow-up communication, and decisions were made without clarity—speculation which wasn't the case.”
Munetsi further affirmed his unwavering support for the Warriors in Morocco, emphasising his respect for the coach’s decisions and his readiness to represent the nation whenever called upon.
“While I’m hurt, my unwavering support for the national team remains strong. I respect the coach’s decisions and stand behind the boys wholeheartedly. I will always be ready to defend the nation I love,” added Munetsi.
Zimbabwe will face Egypt in opener
Apart from Munetsi, Udinese defender Jordan Zemura was also left out owing to an injury. The 26-year-old, who suffered a thigh injury during Monday’s match against Genoa, issued a statement revealing his disappointment to miss the AFCON showdown.
“You work so hard to achieve the small wins in your career. You give everything to the cause. You sacrifice everything, you work non-stop,” said Zemura. “You fight till you can’t fight no more, just to represent the flag of your blood.
“Your mothers land your father’s fields. You work to inspire the youth, the ones after you, that’s all it ever was. Now at the final hurdle I’ve fallen, my body has given up I guess that’s the cost.”
Despite the setback, Zemura wished the Warriors well, and urged the fans to rally behind the team.
“The price you pay, however, I will be back. I will defend these colours again. I will lead this team again. For what is God's will, will be done on earth as it is in heaven. I wish my fellow Warriors all the best luck in Morocco, I wish to be with you on the field fighting with you.
“I know you will be fine, I know you will make us proud. I wish you my country the best. Go and defend our colours and make us proud. I’m sorry I can’t be there with you.”
Zimbabwe have been pooled in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt, and South Africa. The Warriors will kick off their campaign against the Pharaohs of Egypt at Stade Adrar on December 22nd.
Zimbabwe final AFCON squad:
Goalkeepers; Washington Arubi (Marumo Gallants), Elvis Chipezeze (Magesi), Martin Mapisa (MWOS FC).
Defenders; Godknows Murwira (Scottland FC), Emmanuel Jalai (Dynamos), Sean Fusire (Sheffield Wednesday), Munashe Garananga (FC Copenhagen), Gerald Takwara (Al Ittihad Misurata, Libya), Isheanesu Mauchi (Simba Bhora), Brandon Galloway (Plymouth Argyle), Teenage Hadebe (FC Cincinnati), Alec Mudimu (Flint Town United), and Divine Lunga (Mamelodi Sundowns).
Midfielders; Marvelous Nakamba (Luton Town), Jonah Fabisch (Erzgebirge Aue), Andrew Rinomhota (Reading), Prosper Padera (SJK Seinäjoki), Tawanda Chirewa (Wolves), Knowledge Musona (Scottland FC).
Forwards; Bill Antonio (KV Mechelen), Ishmael Wadi (CAPS United), Tawanda Maswanhise (Motherwell), Daniel Msendami (Marumo Gallants), Prince Dube (Young Africans), Washington Navaya (TelOne), Macauley Bonne (Maldon & Tiptree), Junior Zindoga (TS Galaxy), Tadiwanashe Chakuchichi (Scottland FC).
