Rayon Sports President Addresses Aimable’s Issue, Robertinho’s Delay, and Denies Interest in Apam Assongwe

Speaking on Thursday, January 2, 2025, during a meeting with the youth group Dream Unity, Twagirayezu expressed hope that Aimable would reconsider and return to training while apologizing for his actions.

Twagirayezu acknowledged that the club’s overall structure is strong but admitted to facing challenges, including player protests over unpaid dues. “The team we have is not bad; it’s a good team. The issues we face, like players refusing to train, are challenges we address. Recently, we called them for a discussion, paid their dues, and now there are no issues,” he said.

However, Nsabimana Aimable remains an exception. Twagirayezu expressed disappointment in the player’s refusal to train despite efforts to meet his financial demands. “Today, we have one player, Nsabimana Aimable, who is not attending training. Looking at the situation, there’s no valid reason. Aimable should understand how Rayon Sports operates. This club accommodates both locals and foreigners who show resilience and commitment,” he stated.

Twagirayezu revealed that Aimable was promised RWF 13 million in recruitment fees when he renewed his contract last summer. While RWF 8 million has already been paid, the remaining RWF 5 million is still pending. “Recently, when we paid recruitment fees, Aimable received RWF 8 million, leaving a balance of RWF 5 million. For a player who has been supported to this extent, refusing to train is unjustifiable,” Twagirayezu said. He added that Aimable’s situation should not demoralize the team, expressing confidence that the player would eventually return and seek forgiveness. “These issues won’t discourage us. Every player who joins Rayon Sports improves. I believe Aimable will return to training and apologize,” he concluded.

Twagirayezu also dismissed rumors about Rayon Sports’ interest in signing Apam Bemol Assongwe, a Cameroonian player from APR FC. “I don’t even know that player. He’s not part of our considerations,” he clarified, labeling the reports as baseless rumors.

Discussing the club’s achievements, Twagirayezu highlighted the recent success of filling Stade Amahoro to capacity during a match, which he said showcased Rayon Sports’ significance in Rwandan football. “Filling the stadium was a remarkable achievement. It demonstrated who Rayon Sports is in football and society. We provided a great experience, leaving everyone satisfied,” he remarked.

Twagirayezu also mentioned plans to advocate for better financial support for Rayon Sports. During an upcoming FERWAFA general assembly, he intends to argue for a larger share of distributed funds, emphasizing the club’s superior stature compared to other teams. “When funds are distributed, they should reflect each team’s contributions. Rayon Sports is the leading team, and we deserve more,” he insisted.

Regarding head coach Robertinho, Twagirayezu explained the coach’s delayed return from leave due to an unexpected medical issue. “Robertinho informed us on December 31 that he needed surgery on his eye, which prevented him from returning as planned. Based on our collaboration, I trust his explanation,” he said.

Rayon Sports will return to action on Saturday at 6:00 PM, facing Police FC in a Day 14 Rwanda Premier League match at Kigali Pelé Stadium.