The mens National football head coach Stephen Constantine has left out experienced duo Thierry Manzi and Olivier Kwizera from his 28-man provisional squad for the opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Liberia and Cape Verde.
Hakim Sahabo is also missing from the squad as Constantine reshapes his team ahead of Rwanda’s first competitive assignments since taking charge.
The 28-man list was announced by the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) on Tuesday as Amavubi prepare to begin their Group K campaign.
Manzi has been a regular presence in Rwanda’s defence, while goalkeeper Kwizera has also featured in recent national-team squads. Sahabo, meanwhile, has been part of Constantine’s plans but misses this latest selection.
The omissions come as Constantine introduces fresh options, with Rayon Sports goalkeeper Yves Mugisha receiving his first senior call-up.
Kiyovu Sports midfielder Hakim Hamis has also been included after receiving his third national-team call-up, although he is yet to make the final squad for a competitive match.
Keddy Nsanzimfura, another Kiyovu midfielder, returns to the squad alongside Rayon defender Obed Uwumukiza.
The squad has four goalkeepers, including Mugisha, Niyongira Patient of Police FC, Hakizimana Adolphe of APR FC and Ntwari Fiacre of Kruger UTD.
In defence, Constantine has selected Mutsinzi Ange, Niyigena Clement, Kavita Phanuel and Nkulikiyimana Nganji Darryl, while the wider defensive group includes Imanishimwe Emmanuel, Leroy Mickels, Noam Emeran, Niyomugabo Claude, Jojea Kwizera, Byiringiro Jean Gilbert, Uwumukiza Obed and Mugisha Gilbert.
The midfield options are Bonheur Mugisha, Djihad Bizimana, Samuel Guelette, Hakim Hamis, Keddy Nsanzimfura and Kevin Muhire.
Up front, Constantine has picked Innocent Nshuti, Taiba Mbonyumwamy, Abeddy Biramahire, Joy Lance Mickels, Fidal Uwiyaremye and Slayd Mickles.
Rwanda will open their qualifying campaign at home against Liberia on September 25 before facing Cape Verde four days later on September 29.
The Amavubi are in Group K alongside Mali, Cape Verde and Liberia, with the top teams fighting for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Constantine will now have to settle on his final squad from the provisional list as Amavubi begin their push for a return to the continental showpiece.
