Warriors boss says midfielder risks missing Morocco finals without game time
Zimbabwe Warriors coach Michael Nees has called on midfielder Andy Rinomhota to urgently secure a new club ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set for December in Morocco.
Rinomhota, 28, has been without a club since July following his exit from Cardiff City, who were relegated from the English League One. Despite earlier reports that a new deal was imminent, no move has materialised, leaving the midfielder unattached and out of competitive action.
As a result, Nees has left him out of recent Warriors squads, citing concerns over match fitness.
“I’ve been in regular contact with Andy Rinomhota. I value him highly as both a player and a person,” said Nees.
“He featured in all our AFCON qualifiers up to March — that shows my belief in his quality. But it’s hard to select a player without a club because of fitness and injury risks. If he gets injured now, it’s unlikely any club would take him.”
Nees revealed that Rinomhota was close to signing with a new team during the September international window, but the deal fell through.
“The last time we spoke, I thought everything was finalised, but unfortunately it didn’t happen. I’m trying to support him where I can, and I genuinely hope he finds a new club soon. Andy needs regular football to be in contention for the AFCON squad,” the coach added.
As a free agent, Rinomhota can still sign with any club outside the transfer window, but he might have to wait for registration clearance before returning to competitive play — a situation that could affect his AFCON hopes if unresolved soon.