Four Ethiopian-born players called up by the national team
Addis Ababa, July 24, 2023 (FBC) – Four Ethiopian-born players who are playing in different clubs abroad have been called up by the Ethiopia football team ahead of the scheduled summer tour to the United States of America, the Ethiopian Football Federation stated.
The national team head coach Daniel Gebremariam has announced the 24-man squad list last week. The players have started their preparation in Adama on Sunday, July 23, 2023, before they travel to the U.S., Ethiopian Football Federation confirmed.
The Ethiopian-born players such as Marcus Velado Tsegaye (striker), Daniel Sebhatu (striker), Matiwos Rumley (defender), and Daniel Nigussie Skretteberg (goalkeeper) are the new additions to the national team, EFF disclosed.
In its stay in the USA, the Ethiopia national team will play Guyana national team on August 2, 2023, at the Segra Field, Washington, D.C. It the second match, the Walias will play against Atlanta Rovers FC on August 5, 2023, at Southern Crescent Stadium, Atlanta.
Meanwhile, Saladin Seid, who enjoyed great years playing in the Ethiopian national team and in various local and foreign football clubs, has announced his retirement from football last week.
“The Ethiopian Football Federation wishes Saladin Seid the best of luck in the next chapter of his life while thanking him for his outstanding contribution to our national team and football as a player”, reads a statement from EFF after the news of the forward’s retirement from professional football.
The veteran striker enjoyed a successful career both at the national team and club level. In his club career, Saladin played for Ethiopian clubs: Saint George (2007-2011 & 2016-2021), Jimma Aba Jifar FC (2021-2022), Sidama Bunna FC (2022-2023). He has also represented a host of foreign clubs; such as Egyptian clubs Al Ahli (2014-2015) and Wadi Degla (2011-2014); Belgian side Lierse (2013 loan spell); and Algerian club MC Alger (2015).
The striker is the 3rd top goal scorer in the Ethiopia national team history with 14 goals in 28 caps, only behind the top scorer Getaneh Kebede (36 goals in 66 caps) and the renowned Mengistru Worku who scored the second most goals for the Walias (16 goals in just 18 appearances).