FASHION SAKALA SPEAKS OUT ON HIS OMISSION FROM CHIPOLOPOLO’S SQUAD
Zambian footballer Fashion Sakala has broken his silence on his notable exclusion from the Chipolopolo provisional squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. In a candid response, Sakala addressed the criticism surrounding his performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and expressed his disappointment at being left out of the team.
“The same AFCON I was playing as a left back, and you expected me to score while I was in our box defending the whole 90 minutes,” Sakala said, highlighting the unrealistic expectations placed upon him. “I have seen you guys talking about my performance at AFCON, and there’s no player who performed well there. It doesn’t mean that because others scored, they performed better than me. No, man, come on!”
Sakala also addressed the perceived weakness of the Saudi League, where he currently plays. “You talk about the Saudi League being weak, while all your superstars are here playing against the same teams I’m facing every week. Is it a weak league only for me and a tough league for other superstars who came from the Premier League?”
The talented forward expressed his respect for opinions but urged critics to acknowledge his hard work and contributions. “I’m not running away from your opinions, and I respect that, but have some respect, man. I put so much hard work into this league for you guys to keep downgrading the work.”
Sakala emphasized the importance of investing in African leagues and building competitive teams. “What Saudi Arabia has done is a big example for the whole of Africa. Instead of us depending on European leagues, we can actually change something and build our own competitive leagues in African countries. Don’t downgrade other countries for the big investments they’re making for their countries. We can learn from it and do the same for our country, Zambia, and the whole of Africa.”
The Chipolopolo coach, Avram Grant, unveiled a 27-member provisional squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with Fashion Sakala’s omission raising eyebrows among fans and football enthusiasts.
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Image Credit: Fashion Sakala jr