MONROVIA — Liberian international Mohammed Kamara has once again withdrawn from the Lone Star squad ahead of Liberia’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Rwanda and Mali, citing medical concerns.
By Christopher C. Walker | [email protected] | 0777898224/0886723075
Kamara, who currently plays for Romanian top-flight outfit Rapid București, was named in head coach Mohammed Erradi’s squad for the September international window. However, he subsequently notified the national team management that he would be unavailable for selection.
Liberia Football Association (LFA) Communications Manager Anthony Kokoi confirmed the forward’s withdrawal during an exchange with FrontPage Africa, explaining that the player is prioritizing his long-term health following direct consultations with his club.
“Yes, he pulled out of the squad, prioritizing his long-term health and focus on getting back to 100% fitness after consultation with his club’s medical team and management,” Kokoi stated.
Medical Caution or Familiar Pattern?
According to sources close to the player, Kamara underwent surgery last year following a fractured fibula and was strictly advised by specialists to avoid playing on artificial turf.
While Liberia’s September 25 away qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali is scheduled for a natural grass surface, reports indicate that potential training sessions on synthetic pitches in Kigali factored into Kamara’s decision to remain in Romania and focus on his recovery.
Although the LFA has presented the decision strictly as a health precaution, the timing has re-ignited debate among Liberian football enthusiasts due to Kamara’s turbulent history with the national team.
A History of Friction
Kamara’s relationship with the national team setup has long been fraught with controversy.
In September 2021, the forward abruptly left the Lone Star camp in Lagos, Nigeria, shortly before a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles. Reports at the time revealed he walked out after learning he was omitted from the starting lineup.
Former head coach Peter Butler publicly condemned the action, clarifying that Kamara’s benching was purely tactical and accusing the attacker of abandoning his nation.
Following that fallout, Kamara publicly announced he was stepping away from international duty before even making his official debut, declaring in an LFA-released statement that his time with the Lone Star was “officially a wrap.”
Fans Question Commitment, Demand Focus on Local Talent
While former coach Ansumana Keita later recalled Kamara to give him a second chance handing him his official debut this latest withdrawal has drawn sharp criticism from local supporters who feel the national shirt is being taken for granted.
Gifty Teah, a prominent football follower and Bea Mountain FC supporter, publicly voiced the frustration shared by many fans regarding Kamara’s recurring absences.
“I would like to respectfully share my concern about the continued call-ups of this young player to the national team,” Teah stated on social media. “From what we have seen, he has previously declined the opportunity to represent Liberia, and if that remains his position, I believe we should respect his decision.”
Teah appealed directly to the technical staff to prioritize home-grown players who harbor an unyielding commitment to the country.
“Rather than continuing to pursue a player who may not be fully committed to representing Liberia, perhaps our national team coaches could consider giving more opportunities to some of the talented players in our local league who are eager and willing to wear the national colors,” she added. “At the end of the day, wearing the Liberian jersey should be about pride, commitment, and a genuine desire to represent our nation.”
Tactical Headache for Erradi
Kamara’s absence leaves head coach Mohammed Erradi facing a significant attacking void. The Lone Star must travel to face Rwanda on September 25 before returning to Monrovia to host group powerhouses Mali on September 29.
When asked whether the technical staff plans to call up a local replacement to fill the vacant spot, Kokoi did not immediately respond.
The technical bench is expected to decide in the coming days whether to summon a domestic forward as Liberia continues its push for 2027 AFCON qualification.
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