Interview: The Comorian national football team expresses its dissatisfaction with its federation
Tension is growing between the Comoros men’s national football team and its federation. In a recent press release, the players raised several internal problems, such as lighting problems during training, problems with the size of jerseys as well as a disorder in summons for upcoming matches. Faced with these criticisms, the president of the Comorian Football Federation, Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman, wanted to react and present his vision of the situation.
According to Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman, it is true that there may be incidents that occur, but we should not generalize. He admits, for example, that there were lighting problems at a stadium which did not depend on the federation and which suffered from numerous technical problems. However, the president says this does not reflect the general situation of the national team. He highlights the progress made thanks to the support of partners such as the Comorian government, Fifa and CAF. Despite limited resources compared to other African countries, the Comorian federation has managed to improve the conditions of the national team. Players now stay in four or five star hotels, bonuses have been constantly increased and private flights are chartered. Isolated incidents, such as the problem encountered in Turkey with the agent who organized the match, are, according to him, minor inconveniences which should not overshadow the progress made.
Regarding the dialogue between the federation and the players of the selection, Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman affirms that the absence of dialogue does not come from the federation, but rather from certain players who act in their own name and in collusion with certain staff members. He even mentions cases of blackmail, where some players demanded increased bonuses for the next gathering. According to the president, players should only focus on their performance on the field and not interfere in organizational aspects or the choices of the federation.
Despite these internal problems, Saïd Ali Saïd Athouman is not worried about the continuation of the players’ international careers. He recalls that other national teams also encountered problems during their preparation, but managed to achieve good performances. He encourages players to take into account the reality of the country and the federation, while reminding that discussions can always be initiated.
In conclusion, it is clear that the Comorian national football team is going through internal tensions which require resolution.. The players express their dissatisfaction with certain organizational problems, while the federation defends itself by highlighting the progress made despite limited resources. It is essential that both parties find common ground in order to preserve the image and performance of the selection.