Kaitano Tembo has underlined the importance of Marshall Munetsi, who endured a rather frustrating stay on the sidelines for Zimbabwe, missing out on the 2025 AFCON and Mukuru 4 Nations tournament due to a controversy involving the Zimbabwe FA.
Munetsi missed seven games played under Marian Marinica’s mentorship, who resigned from his post last month. Indications were that there was bad blood between the two, as Munetsi voiced welfare concerns that were thwarted, costing him his place in the team.
Apart from missing the 2025 AFCON, he also missed the Mukuru 4 Nations tournament in Botswana, won by the Warriors. The former Orlando Pirates star, on loan at Paris FC from Wolverhampton Wanderers, makes his return for Zimbabwe under Sekhukhune United youth coach Tembo.
‘MARSHALL MUNETSI IS THE GUIDING STAR WE NEED’ – KAITANO TEMBO
For Tembo, Munetsi’s importance goes beyond the field of play, as he exemplifies what is required of a national team player through his discipline and rise to stardom. Tembo reckons Munetsi is the guiding star players need outside the dressing room.
In an interview with FARPost, Tembo said he is excited about Munetsi’s return, crucially as the Warriors seek to account for the Unity Cup in the UK against Nigeria, India, and Jamaica between 26 and 30 May.
“And at the same time, we need senior players to guide these youngsters. Hence, we’ve got Munetsi’s return. I’m excited because he’s the example we need. What he brings is known, and he brings leadership beyond the dressing room,” Tembo told FARPost.
“We have got Gerald Takwara [formerly Ajax Cape Town]. Also, we have players like Munashe Garananga [for Hibernian FC in Scotland] playing at a higher level. So we need to create that balance.”
With Munetsi’s return, some senior players like goalkeeper Washington Arubi and Knowledge Musona are out of the picture. However, Tembo says they still have them in their plans.
“Those senior players are still needed. But for now, it’s important we find the right balance, bringing in new players. This is an opportunity to see them at this level and see if they’re capable of holding their own,” Tembo added.
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