The future of Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari at Kaizer Chiefs is looking increasingly uncertain following reports of tensions with the club’s technical team ahead of the recent FIFA international break.
Surprise Omission Fuels Speculation
Despite starting in consecutive FIFA World Cup qualifiers for Rwanda against Benin and South Africa, Ntwari was notably absent from Chiefs’ most recent matchday squad. His omission has sparked speculation that the 26-year-old’s relationship with the Amakhosi hierarchy may be strained.
Since his arrival from TS Galaxy at the beginning of last season, Ntwari has struggled to secure a regular spot in the starting XI, facing competition from Brandon Petersen and Bruce Bvuma for the No.1 jersey. The situation reportedly worsened after Ntwari refused to be substituted during the Carling Knockout defeat to Stellenbosch FC a move some in the club interpreted as defiance.
Comments from Rwanda Coach Add Fuel
Tensions were further compounded when Rwanda coach Adel Amrouche revealed that Ntwari had received interest from overseas, but that Chiefs’ valuation effectively blocked any potential transfer. Chiefs management reportedly viewed these comments as unnecessary, adding to the friction between player and club.
Dropped for CAF Confederation Cup Clash
The latest fallout saw Ntwari dropped from the squad that travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo for the CAF Confederation Cup clash against AS Simba, with Petersen starting and Bvuma named on the bench.
With relations seemingly strained and the January transfer window approaching, Ntwari’s future at Naturena appears increasingly uncertain.
Kaizer Chiefs at a Crossroads
Tensions between Fiacre Ntwari and the club’s technical team show no signs of easing, leaving the Rwandan goalkeeper’s future at Kaizer Chiefs in doubt. With the January transfer window looming, Naturena may be forced to make a major decision, keeping fans and pundits on edge about what lies ahead for the 26-year-old Amakhosi shot-stopper.
Related article: Why Kaizer Chiefs Goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari Refused to Leave the Pitch?