The head coach of the Amavubi (Rwanda National Team), Adel Amrouche, has announced that he will never again call up Rafael York and Hakim Sahabo to represent the national team as long as he is in charge.
Speaking to the press ahead of the friendly match against Algeria scheduled for Thursday, Amrouche revealed that the two players declined the national team call-up for reasons he considered disrespectful to the country’s flag. Sahabo said he needed rest, while York claimed he was sick — but the coach rejected their explanations.
Amrouche stated:
“No player is above the national flag. Neither of the two will be called up again as long as I’m still here. You can write about them, post them on Facebook or wherever — maybe after I leave, they’ll come back.”
The 57-year-old Algerian-born coach emphasized that he needs players with a genuine love for the country — not those motivated by money or personal gain. He also echoed the values of Rwanda’s leadership, saying he desires a team built on principles aligned with those advocated by President Kagame.
Amrouche’s comments show this isn’t the first time York and Sahabo have faced behavioral issues. Even former coach Frank Spittler previously accused them of misconduct, which led to their exclusion from the team.
The Amavubi are preparing for two friendly matches against Algeria — one on June 5 at Chahid Hamlaoui Stadium and another scheduled for June 9.
