Manara requests Samatta to remain with Taifa Stars till AFCON finals

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA National teams spokesperson Haji Manara has appealed to Taifa Stars captain Mbwana Samatta to continue representing the country until the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying his international football experience remains valuable to the development of the national team.

The appeal comes after Samatta announced his decision to retire from international football, a move that sparked debate among football stakeholders who have urged him to reconsider and continue serving the national team until after next year’s AFCON tournament.

Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam, Manara said Samatta’s presence within the Taifa Stars squad, particularly in the dressing room, could play a significant role in motivating and mentoring young players.

“Samatta, we ask you to postpone that decision until after AFCON. Your presence brings great value. You can motivate your teammates because you are the captain,” Manara said.

He described Samatta as one of the few Tanzanian players to have reached the highest levels of international football, highlighting his achievements with TP Mazembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as well as his experience playing in various European leagues.

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According to Manara, that experience makes Samatta more than just a player within the Taifa Stars squad, as he has the ability to guide and advise younger players in a role similar to that of a technical mentor.

“You have served the nation for a long time and demonstrated the value of football, discipline, and how a player should conduct himself. Young players look up to you,” he said.

Manara added that Samatta’s contribution should not only be measured by his ability to play on the pitch, but also by his leadership role as an experienced international footballer capable of helping build the next generation of Taifa Stars players.