ZIFA Chief Magwizi Backs Munetsi Return, Says “Door Still Open” Despite Snub

Harare – Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) president Nqobile Magwizi has moved to calm growing speculation around Marshall Munetsi’s national team future, insisting the midfielder remains firmly in contention for Warriors selection despite his recent omission.

By Advent Shoko 

Munetsi’s absence from Zimbabwe’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad and the Four Nations tournament in Botswana had raised eyebrows among fans, with questions mounting over whether the influential midfielder had fallen out of favour.

But speaking after a ZIFA Executive Committee meeting in Harare on Friday, Magwizi delivered a clear message, the door is still open. Magwizi said:

“Marshall Munetsi, he’s an amazing and fantastic player. Any player who is good, disciplined, and wants to play for the nation is definitely going to be given a chance.”

His remarks reinforce ZIFA’s broader governance position, a commitment to inclusivity, merit, and structured football development. Magwizi emphasised that the association’s role is not to interfere in team selection, but to ensure a fair system where talent is recognised and given opportunity. He added:

“We don’t get involved in choosing the players to represent the country, but our policy is clear on giving the best players an opportunity to represent the country.”

That distinction is crucial.

While ZIFA sets the policy direction, final squad decisions rest with the national team technical bench, a separation designed to protect professionalism and avoid administrative interference.

Munetsi’s omission, therefore, appears to be a technical decision rather than an administrative one.

Still, Magwizi’s endorsement signals confidence in the midfielder’s quality and leaves the path open for a potential recall, a development that will be closely watched by supporters ahead of upcoming international fixtures.

The bigger picture, however, is about governance and trust.

ZIFA is positioning itself as a body that prioritises fairness, discipline, and performance, key pillars in rebuilding Zimbabwean football’s credibility on and off the pitch.

For Munetsi, the message is simple: perform, stay disciplined, and the opportunity will come.

And for fans, hope remains alive, one of Zimbabwe’s top midfield engines is not out of the picture just yet.