THE FOOTBALL Association of Zambia (FAZ) President has dropped what appears to be a strong hint that star forward Fashion Sakala may return to the Chipolopolo squad when Zambia takes on Morocco in September in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
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The speculation around Sakala’s continued absence from the national team has been loud and consistent, with fans questioning his exclusion from recent call-ups.
But with a new FAZ executive in charge, it seems doors will be opening again soon for the Saudi Arabia-based attacker.
Responding to a journalist who tried to dig into why the Al-Fayha striker has not featured under his watch, Mweemba disclosed that there has been no national team game since he took over, and until one is played, nobody can claim anyone has been sidelined.
He acknowledged that Sakala had publicly shared his frustrations recently, but said the forward was simply expressing himself, something any player can do.
“He was merely expressing himself and you have to respect that, but obviously these are not things that we can really comment on publicly,” Mweemba responded to a journalist.
“When Zambia plays a game today and Fashion Sakala is not there, then you will talk about absence. If [he] will not be part of the next game, then come and ask me that question.”
Fashion Sakala’s relationship with the national team has been under scrutiny, especially after reported issues with the previous FAZ leadership and former coaching staff.
With Chipolopolo set to face Morocco in their next competitive fixture, the FAZ boss said the match would be the right time to ask serious questions about squad selection, not now when the boots have not hit the pitch yet.
By George Musonda
Kalemba July 2, 2025
