Chronicle Editor
Marshall Munetsi is undoubtedly one of the finest footballers Zimbabwe has ever produced. At the beginning of his career, the Harare-born midfielder drew comparisons to Yaya Toure, but time has shown that N’Golo Kante may be a better role model for Marshall.
Munetsi is a tireless runner with an incredible physique, very fitting for somebody who captains The Warriors. An undisputed starter at Stade de Reims, he is valued at €10 million by Transfermarkt, making him the most expensive player both at his club and national team.
There is a large following back home interested in what to expect from Munetsi next season, but no is possible without understanding who will be coaching the team – and this may be a problem at Stade de Reims. Yet, with his solid performances from last term, Marshall should not be too worried about what is to come.
Marshall Munetsi in 2023/24 for Club and Country
The Zimbabwe national team captain was a fixed starter in Ligue 1 last term, making a total of 27 appearances and coming off the bench only twice. Munetsi would have undoubtedly played more if not for the injury setback from November which kept him sidelined for over a month.
The 27-year-old was a trusted player under coach Will Still not only because of his consistency, he was also an important contributor up front with four goals and four assists. With eight total goal contributions, Munetsi had the fourth-best offensive output at Reims despite his mainly-defensive responsibilities on the pitch.
Stade de Reims ended up ninth in Ligue 1 – while many had higher expectations – but this underperformance cannot be attributed to Munetsi in any way. Marshall kept a very high level throughout the year, especially in terms of defensive contributions. The Zimbabwe superstar had some of the best numbers on the team when it came to tackles, clearances and fouls per 90 minutes, all that in addition to the incredible workrate that he is known for.
At the country level, the captain did his best too, even contributing with assists here and there, but the results were pitiful. Zimbabwe did not win a single game during the 2023/24 term, recording five draws and three losses. The Warriors are currently last in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group C. However, there are six games left and the situation can be salvaged.
Prospects for 2024/25 Amid Upcoming Changes at Reims
Stade de Reims have big plans for this summer as they will be travelling to Japan for a pre-season tour. The first training sessions are expected already at the start of June, but the fans and, most importantly, the players still do not know the coach for the 2024/25 season.
Will Still, who spoke very highly about Munetsi, was sacked weeks before the end of the season and replaced by caretaker Samba Diawara. As per reports, Reims have a shortlist of five candidates to lead the team next season but there is no clarity regarding the future.
Nevertheless, there are several reasons to believe that Marshall will have a fruitful year regardless of who is in charge.
Firstly, Muntesi proved his worth more than once. The Zimbabwe international moved to Stade de Reims in 2019 and, after a period of adaptation, became an important player under all of the previous coaches – David Guion, Oscar Garcia and Will Still. His workrate and defensive contributions remain unmatched.
Second, the 27-year-old is very versatile as he has been deployed as a midfielder, centre-back, pivot and even attacking midfielder, and this will give the new coach plenty of options to choose from.
Third, the club officials seem to value Munetsi highly. The Zimbabwean was offered a contract extension until 2027 this season. Moreover, Reims pledged to donate €100 for every km covered by the player in official matches while he is at the club.
And fourth, there is no obvious competition for Marshall within the squad. There are other players in midfield but none can offer the same defensive security and leadership that Munetsi does.
So, as long as Marshall Munetsi manages to stay fit throughout the season, he will definitely get his chance from the new coach. And just like before, the Zimbabwean has all the attributes to earn the trust of yet another manager.
Online Reporter