By Adama Makasuba
Gambian football fans have voiced their disappointment following the emergence of a photo depicting Scorpions U-17 goalkeeper Fallou Mbye wearing worn-out gloves. Many fans directed their frustration toward the Gambia Football Federation (GFF), expressing concerns over the apparent neglect of the players’ welfare, while others criticized the federation for its overall underperformance.
Alhasan Alex Darboe, a Gambian living in the U.S., condemned the GFF, labeling its actions as “shocking incompetence and negligence.” He highlighted that “our national goalkeeper is wearing damaged gloves in a pre-game photo op in Morocco—an unacceptable oversight that underscores the federation’s careless management.” Darboe further accused the GFF of “corruption and lack of vision,” which he believes contributes to the youth “backway” crisis, as young people lose hope for opportunities at home.
In contrast to the widespread criticism, Essa Bah argued that this is not uncommon in football. He referenced legendary Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, who, he claimed, wore similar gloves during his career. “While better gloves would have been ideal for the photo shoot, players using worn-out gloves or boots is quite prevalent, even at the highest levels of professional football,” he commented in defense of the scenario.
Dodou Oley Janko, who claims to have taught the young keeper in school, expressed dismay at seeing his former student represent the country with such deficient equipment. “As his PE teacher and coach, it disturbs me. Fallou doesn’t deserve this; he is one of my school team’s most disciplined and hardworking players. He rarely speaks up for himself,” Janko lamented. “I was unaware that he traveled with those gloves; had I known, I would have helped him acquire new ones. But being in ninth grade, it’s challenging for Fallou to buy new gloves independently.”
