Zimbabwe’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been disrupted by the temporary release of midfielder Andy Rinomhota, though officials have stressed that the situation is not viewed as a permanent withdrawal.
The Reading FC midfielder had only recently joined the Warriors in Morocco after linking up with the squad that completed a preparatory camp in Harare. He took part in official team activities, including media engagements, before requesting to step away from camp to attend to a personal family matter.
Crucially, the Zimbabwe Football Association has indicated that Rinomhota remains very much in the national team picture and is expected to return once the matter is resolved — a development that offers reassurance to head coach Mario Marinica as the tournament approaches.
ZIFA statement
In a statement, Zimbabwe Football Association clarified the circumstances surrounding the midfielder’s absence and underlined expectations of his return:
“The Zimbabwe Football Association advises that Zimbabwe Men’s National Team player, Andy Rinomhota, requested to be released from the current Warriors camp to attend to a personal family matter.
“Following discussions with the player, the technical team and the Association agreed to the request in the best interests of all parties. ZIFA respects and supports the player’s decision and appreciates the professional manner in which the matter was handled.
“Andy Rinomhota remains part of the national team setup, and the Association looks forward to his return once the matter has been resolved.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association kindly requests that the privacy of the player and his family be respected during this period.”
Rinomhota’s temporary absence adds to recent turbulence within the Warriors camp, which is already without vice-captain Marshall Munetsi following his omission from the final squad.
Zimbabwe begin their Group B campaign against Egypt, before facing Angola on Boxing Day and concluding the group stage against Bafana Bafana on December 29, with the Warriors hopeful that Rinomhota will be available as the tournament unfolds.