Twagirayezu Thaddée teases a star striker for Rayon Sports, and defends player trials

Speaking on Thursday, January 23, during an interview with Radio & TV 10's sports show Urukiko rw'Imikino, Twagirayezu addressed criticism over the club’s use of trials to assess players, a practice some believe is unnecessary for established clubs.

He remarked, “We’ve heard critics say that Rayon Sports shouldn’t conduct trials, arguing that the club should bring in well-known players. For instance, if you’re signing someone like Ronaldo, there’s no need for a trial since his abilities are already proven.

“But when you look at the reality of the situation, it’s different. Rwandan clubs generally don’t operate on the basis of trials for every player, but there are exceptions based on circumstances. Trials allow us to identify talent that fits the team.”

Twagirayezu explained that trials are part of Rayon Sports' philosophy of developing talent and providing opportunities for players.
He said, “Rayon Sports is a club that nurtures players. We receive calls from players saying they want to join the team. 

For example, someone might call and say, ‘I’m a top scorer in Guinea’s first division and want to play for Rayon Sports.’ But we can’t just take their word for it; we need to evaluate them.

“The reason is simple: players see Rayon Sports as a stepping stone. They know playing here for two years can propel them to greater heights. That’s why you see players coming in for trials, even some like the Cameroonian who arrived recently. 

He’s talented and has played in competitive leagues, but he wants to prove himself at Rayon Sports because he believes the club can help him achieve his goals.”

Twagirayezu also confirmed that a specific player, who will not undergo trials, is set to arrive in Rwanda on January 26. “There’s one player who won’t need trials. He’ll be here on the 26th. As for the others, there are currently two or four undergoing trials.”

Additionally, the Rayon Sports President denied rumors of negotiations with Ugandan striker Fahad Bayo.

Currently, players undergoing trials at Rayon Sports include Ntamba Musikwabo Malick from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Raymond Lolendi Ntaudyimara from Tanzania, and Innocent Nah Assana from Cameroon, who arrived in Rwanda on Wednesday.