The Zimbabwe Football Association has clarified the circumstances surrounding midfielder Tawanda Chirewa’s temporary release from the national team camp to engage with English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
ZIFA said the arrangement was agreed in advance, before Chirewa reported for national duty, and emphasised that his brief departure had been sanctioned with “the full blessing and consent” of the association.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association wishes to inform the nation, the media fraternity and all stakeholders 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,” the association said in a statement.
According to ZIFA, Wolverhampton Wanderers requested an opportunity to assess Chirewa as part of their pre-season preparations under a new technical team. The association stressed that the development should not be misconstrued as a dispute, withdrawal or disagreement.
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“This 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,” ZIFA said.
The football body also reassured supporters that preparations for upcoming international fixtures remain on course, expressing appreciation for the public’s continued backing.
“ZIFA extends its gratitude to all supporters for their unwavering passion and commitment to the national cause,” the statement added.
Chirewa is expected to return to national team duties once the agreed assessment period with Wolverhampton Wanderers concludes.
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