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Warriors camp hit by turbulence, but Marinica says 'all is well'
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The Warriors' first week of preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has unfolded like a drama series - rumours, shock dismissals, swirling allegations and late-arriving stars - yet head coach Marian Marinica insists the atmosphere remains calm and fully focused on the task ahead.
The national team began camp amid heavy expectations, but soon after assembling, reports filtered across social media alleging that several players were abruptly released under the pretext of injury. Critics claimed some of those dropped were fit enough to train, sparking suggestions that backroom influence may be shaping selections behind the scenes.
Marinica was quick to downplay the talk.
Speaking after the squad's third day of training, he maintained that preparations were on track and morale remained high.
"The players are training very well. They are hard-working. We qualified for Afcon, and we must compete at that level. Everyone is supporting us; all is well," he said, steering away from the noise.
Just as uncertainties seemed to settle, a fresh blow landed. Fifa confirmed that foreign-based players would only be released from December 15 — a full week later than the Warriors had planned for. The decision means Zimbabwe may only get access to key players in the final stretch before the tournament kicks off in Morocco.
"Things have been pushed back a little bit. We expected some players sooner," Marinica admitted.
"We're not sure what's going to happen, unfortunately — but it is what it is."
The setback intensified fan frustration and accusations of poor planning, forcing Zifa to release a comprehensive medical update addressing withdrawals and selection decisions.
In its statement, the association insisted all exclusions were based on verified medical information backed by scans, physical assessments and GPS data captured during the opening training sessions.
Marinica echoed the emphasis on conditioning.
"The fitness element is critical because you have to be able to sustain high-intensity activity and play at least two matches of 90 minutes each," he stated.
"We need the fittest players possible."
With the clock ticking and the Warriors placed in a tricky group alongside South Africa, Egypt and Angola, Zimbabwe's preparation phase is under intense scrutiny. The coming weeks will determine whether the turbulence serves as fuel or a fatal distraction.
The team stands at a crossroads — steadying for an Afcon campaign where unity, clarity and conditioning could be the difference between survival and early exit.
For now, Marinica maintains faith. The nation watches, hopeful — but restless.
The national team began camp amid heavy expectations, but soon after assembling, reports filtered across social media alleging that several players were abruptly released under the pretext of injury. Critics claimed some of those dropped were fit enough to train, sparking suggestions that backroom influence may be shaping selections behind the scenes.
Marinica was quick to downplay the talk.
Speaking after the squad's third day of training, he maintained that preparations were on track and morale remained high.
"The players are training very well. They are hard-working. We qualified for Afcon, and we must compete at that level. Everyone is supporting us; all is well," he said, steering away from the noise.
Just as uncertainties seemed to settle, a fresh blow landed. Fifa confirmed that foreign-based players would only be released from December 15 — a full week later than the Warriors had planned for. The decision means Zimbabwe may only get access to key players in the final stretch before the tournament kicks off in Morocco.
"Things have been pushed back a little bit. We expected some players sooner," Marinica admitted.
"We're not sure what's going to happen, unfortunately — but it is what it is."
The setback intensified fan frustration and accusations of poor planning, forcing Zifa to release a comprehensive medical update addressing withdrawals and selection decisions.
In its statement, the association insisted all exclusions were based on verified medical information backed by scans, physical assessments and GPS data captured during the opening training sessions.
Marinica echoed the emphasis on conditioning.
"The fitness element is critical because you have to be able to sustain high-intensity activity and play at least two matches of 90 minutes each," he stated.
"We need the fittest players possible."
With the clock ticking and the Warriors placed in a tricky group alongside South Africa, Egypt and Angola, Zimbabwe's preparation phase is under intense scrutiny. The coming weeks will determine whether the turbulence serves as fuel or a fatal distraction.
The team stands at a crossroads — steadying for an Afcon campaign where unity, clarity and conditioning could be the difference between survival and early exit.
For now, Marinica maintains faith. The nation watches, hopeful — but restless.
Source - BMetro
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