Africa-Press – Liberia. Wilson, a former goalkeeper for Mighty Barrolle from 1985 to 1989, said it was disheartening to see both traditional powerhouses relegated.
Former Youth and Sports Minister D. Zeogar Wilson has called for sweeping changes at Mighty Barrolle following the club’s relegation from Liberia’s First Division, describing the development as a sad day for Liberian football.
Two of Liberia’s most historic clubs, Mighty Barrolle and Invincible Eleven (IE), were demoted to the Second Division after a poor 2024/2025 season in which both sides failed to accumulate enough points to stay in the top flight.
Wilson, a former goalkeeper for Mighty Barrolle from 1985 to 1989, said it was disheartening to see both traditional powerhouses relegated, blaming the fall on a lack of proper support and commitment from players and club leadership.
“IE and Barrolle should not be struggling for support,” Wilson told FrontPage Africa from his base in the United States. “There are huge problems in Barrolle and big changes must be made. Everyone—from the board to the players and former coaches—must take responsibility.”
Wilson stressed the need for a complete structural overhaul, pointing to longstanding issues that have plagued the club. He also urged the recruitment of dedicated players who truly care about the club’s legacy.
“We weren’t relegated on the final day. We were relegated over the course of the entire season because we simply weren’t good enough,” he said. “We haven’t given our loyal supporters anything to cheer for. We let them down.”
According to Wilson, financial dependency on a few individuals has left both IE and Barrolle vulnerable. “Support used to come from people who had both the money and the love for these clubs. Today, even if there are those who can afford it, many just aren’t willing to step in.”
He added, “When people put in effort and don’t see results, it discourages them from continuing their support. That’s what has happened with Barrolle.”
Wilson, who helped the club win multiple national championships and WAFU titles, said he believes a total rebuild is the only way forward. He called on fans to rally behind the club and for leadership to take immediate action.
“There are a million questions that need to be answered. Players need to leave, new players need to come in, and those running the club must decide the direction Barrolle will take,” he emphasized.
He didn’t mince words about the gravity of the situation. “There are deep-rooted problems—it’s not just this season. It’s been building over years. Decisions need to be made now. Otherwise, each day that passes, the club falls further behind.”
Wilson concluded by saying he’s willing to offer his views, but the responsibility to act lies with those in charge. “I’ll give my opinion, but it’s up to the officials to choose the path forward.”
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