Dear Coach Spittler, Congratulations on being appointed as the new head coach of the Rwandan national football team but take note, Rwandans love their team and have high hopes--it won't be long before they show it to you. They will love and support you when the team is winning, but they can also be as critical when you don't prove your worth! Your new job is an exciting opportunity, but it also comes with a considerable challenge, especially as you aim to guide the team through the qualification process for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge the significance of the task that lies ahead of you. Rwanda finds itself in a challenging group for World Cup qualification, competing against football powerhouses like Nigeria, South Africa, Benin and Zimbabwe. It's a full plate with Zimbabwe and South Africa first up starting this month. You're going to need to roll up the sleaves and get dirty immediately. You don't have time for honeymoon! These teams have a history of strong performances on the international stage, and securing a spot in the World Cup against such competition will indeed be a Herculean task. But, before that, one of the major points of concern is the duration of your contract, which has been set at just one year. While short-term contracts are not uncommon in football, they do raise questions about the level of trust and support from the appointing authority, in this case FERWAFA, the local football governing body. It's crucial to ensure that the coaching staff and players have confidence in your leadership and vision, and a longer-term contract might help in this regard. Another area for your urgent consideration is the quality of the squad at your disposal. Success in international football heavily relies on the talent and depth of the player pool. As you may be well aware, you don't have the luxury of time to settle in your new environment in order to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your team carefully, and work on developing the squad to its fullest potential, and ultimately improve the overall quality of the team. Your experience, or lack thereof, coaching at a high level is a valid concern. Coaching an international team is vastly different from managing at the club level. The dynamics are unique, and the challenges more complex. While your coaching journey might not have featured extensive high-level experience, it's essential to learn quickly, adapt to the international stage, and surround yourself with experienced individuals who can provide valuable guidance. In addition, fostering a collaborative and positive atmosphere within the team is vital. Building a cohesive unit with a strong team spirit can make up for any shortcomings in individual talent. Instill a sense of belief in your players, encourage them to play without fear, and make sure they understand the importance of teamwork and discipline. These are key ingredients to success. If you indeed need reminder of what you probably already know, you are taking over a team that last won a competitive match in March 2021 beating Mozambique in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Rwanda has dropped to 140th in the latest FIFA World rankings. So, as you embark on this journey, remember that success isn't solely measured by qualifying for the World Cup. The progress made in terms of team development, player improvement, and the nation's passion for football are equally important. Focus on the long-term growth of Rwandan football, even if the immediate goal seems daunting. Make Rwandans fall in love with their team, and you will love you job and have an enjoyable experience. Anything short, and you will be added to the number! The challenge of leading Rwanda to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is substantial, but it's not insurmountable. Your one-year contract may be a sign of uncertainty, but it's also an opportunity to prove your worth quickly. It's crucial to build trust, develop the squad, and adapt swiftly to the unique demands of international coaching. Your success will not only be reflected in results but in the positive impact you have on Rwandan football as a whole. Best of luck in your new role, Coach Spittler. Rwandan football enthusiasts are eager to see the national team thrive under your guidance, and we hope that you rise to the occasion and make the country proud.
