Tishreen SC forward, Khuda Myaba, has responded strongly to Flames interim coach Patrick Mabedi's comments regarding the decision to exclude him from the squad for the final 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea. In a pre-match interview, Mabedi mentioned that he selected players who would align with his playing philosophy.
Mabedi stated, "We must acknowledge that if it's not your season, it's time for others. We need to consider our future direction. You can't fix what's already broken. It's important to give the youngsters an opportunity. While Myaba is a talented player, our style of play requires players who excel in both attacking and defending, during transitions and without possession. If a player doesn't fit this philosophy, then they don't have a place here."
Mabedi also justified the exclusion of Gabadinho Mhango from the squad, explaining, "He has recently joined a new team, and I thought it would be wise to allow him time to adapt and settle down, so as to prevent him from losing his place in the starting lineup for his new team. I discussed this with him at length, and he agreed with my decision, understanding that he should be ready when he joins us in the future."
In response to these remarks, Myaba dismissed the claim that his time with the Flames was over, confidently stating that he would return once Mabedi is no longer the coach. He said, "Mabedi is a very jealous coach. My time has not yet come to an end, and you will realize this once you are fired. Don't forget that you are merely an interim coach. Your predecessors also attempted to drop me like you are doing now, but where are they today? This is not Mabedi FC or your personal property. I am still here, patiently waiting for your downfall, even if it takes five years. But you will eventually be dismissed." Myaba expressed these sentiments through his official Facebook page, although the post has since been deleted.
It is worth noting that the Flames have already been eliminated from the Afcon finals, following consecutive defeats to Egypt and a draw against Ethiopia, which pushed them into third position behind Egypt and Saturday's opponents, Guinea.
