HARARE – Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Sean Fusire has broken his silence following his withdrawal from the Zimbabwe Warriors squad amid growing speculation and questions over his absence from the team set to face Benin and Rwanda in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers scheduled for September 5 and 9.
Fusire was initially named in the squad by Warriors head coach Michael Nees but was later replaced by Scottland striker Tymon Machope.
The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) offered limited explanation at the time, merely citing financial constraints as the reason behind Fusire’s omission.
However, as speculation swirled, particularly on social media, where some questioned his patriotism, the 20-year-old has now come forward to set the record straight, releasing a detailed statement explaining the circumstances behind his withdrawal.
“Firstly, I would like to sincerely apologise to my coach, Michael Nees, to the team, and most importantly to our fans for the confusion around my attendance at this current camp, which unfortunately I will no longer be a part of,” Fusire said.
“This is disappointing for me personally as a player. At the same time, as a professional, I acknowledge my part in the confusion that has taken place. This is not how I desired for things to unravel.
“I confirm that I have no issues at all with ZIFA, the team, or the country. I am very proud to be Zimbabwean.”
Fusire clarified his withdrawal was a result of logistical concerns related to travel.
He cited the extreme travel duration, over 40 hours and his history of injuries as key reasons for requesting a flight upgrade.
“After I had been informed of my selection for the camp and given flights, I simply inquired to officials about total travel duration, which would have amounted to over 40 hours.
“In my opinion, and thinking about my previous injury history and the physical toll such cramped travel could take, I requested a flight upgrade,” he explained.
“I asked for either business class or at least premium economy. When that was declined, I proposed flying economy on all legs except the final 11-hour flight from South Africa to the UK. Unfortunately, that too was turned down.”
Fusire further revealed that he even offered to use the allowances owed to him by the association from the last camp to cover the cost of the upgrade.
Despite this offer, he says he received no further communication from the ZIFA official handling the matter, leaving him in a difficult position.
“At that stage, I did not feel comfortable traveling without a resolution to the matter,” he added.
Reiterating his love for the country and desire to represent the national team, Fusire said the situation was never about money, but about ensuring he was physically fit to contribute both to Zimbabwe and his club upon return.
“I want to avoid any misconstrued stories. This was not about financial gain—it was a logistical concern to ensure I would be fit for both the upcoming international fixtures and my return to club football in England.”
He concluded with a heartfelt message:
“It is a great honour for me and my family to be called up for national duty. I remain ready and honoured to represent Zimbabwe in the future.
“I simply felt I should clear the air and set the record straight amidst the media frenzy. I wish the boys all the best and success in Ivory Coast and South Africa.”
