By Rahim Abdul
Football analyst Parry Chinyama has said it is wrong for football players to demand payment from media houses before granting interviews.
Chinyama made the remarks following comments by Masters FC striker Khuda Muyaba, who recently sparked debate on social media over player interviews.
He said FIFA regulations allow players to speak to journalists as part of promoting the game and ensuring football information reaches the public.
According to Chinyama, media interviews are part of a player’s responsibilities and should not be treated as a source of personal income.
He added that players who refuse to fulfil their official media obligations when required should face disciplinary action in accordance with football regulations.
Chinyama has since called on all football clubs in Malawi to educate their players on media responsibilities and the laws governing the game.
He said proper education would help avoid unnecessary misunderstandings between players and journalists.
The comments come amid growing discussion over whether footballers should be paid for appearing in interviews.
Meanwhile, Masters Football Club has clarified that it has not introduced charges for journalists seeking routine interviews with its players.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the club said its earlier communication referred only to exclusive podcasts and other digital content where a player’s appearance may generate commercial value for a specific platform.
Masters FC stressed that all its players remain available for pre-match and post-match interviews as part of the club’s commitment to supporting football coverage.
The club said requests for podcasts, exclusive interviews and other unofficial digital media engagements should be channelled through the Masters FC Media Department for approval and proper coordination.
Masters FC added that the arrangement is intended to professionally manage player media engagements while maintaining a positive working relationship with media practitioners and promoting Malawian football.
