After having great success last season while serving Simba, who he joined in a min window from Geita Gold, many have been surprised by the decision of the coach of the Burundi national team, Etienne Ndayiragije, not to include Saido Ntibazonkiza in his squad that will play against Namibia today in the game to qualify for the finals Afcon 2023
Burundi is using Benjamin Mkapa stadium, the game is expected to be played at 4 pm
According to the statistics, Saido is the best player in the Premier League last season, winning three awards, the best scorer, the best midfielder and the FAIR PLAY award
Ndayiragije, who has coached several teams in the country including the Tanzanian national team, has said that he recognizes Saido but has left him out with the aim of giving him a rest after playing many matches
"Saido is a good player and is also a leader for his teammates, especially when he is in the national team. Not only him, but there are other better ones that we haven't included in the squad, but it's not that we don't recognize them or know their abilities"
"Saido has played many matches this season with high quality, so he needs some time off for other upcoming matches of the national team and his club. We also want to develop other players who will help the national team for years to come. ," said Ndayiragije
Saido has returned to Burundi for a break after the end of the season and will return to the country at the beginning of July for the pre-season of the Simba team