Arubi Still Going Strong at 40, Set to Continue at Club Level After AFCON Exit
Veteran Zimbabwean goalkeeper Washington Arubi has moved to reassure fans that age is not slowing him down, with the 40-year-old expected to continue playing at club level following the Warriors’ exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Arubi, who turns out in the Betway Premiership for Marumo Gallants, has no immediate plans to step away from football and says his focus now shifts back to club duties in South Africa rather than making hasty decisions about his international future.
Speaking after Zimbabwe’s dramatic 3–2 defeat to South Africa national football team at the Marrakech Stadium earlier this week, Arubi struck a calm and reflective tone.
“Right now I just have to go back home and see what the future holds for me. I must see how far I still want to go when I go back to the club,” Arubi said.
First AFCON, Big Presence
Remarkably, despite his long international career, Morocco 2025 marked Arubi’s first AFCON finals appearance, having previously featured only in qualifiers. While he did not register a clean sheet at the tournament, his command of the defence, composure under pressure and leadership were widely praised.
The Warriors were competitive throughout the group stage — leading Egypt deep into the match, holding Angola to a draw, and pushing Bafana Bafana all the way in a high-tempo Southern African derby.
“Even though we are going out, I think we had a great tournament as a team, and I’m proud of the boys,” Arubi added.
Club Football Still the Priority
Crucially for South African fans, Arubi’s comments strongly suggest that he intends to continue playing for Marumo Gallants, where he remains a key figure both on and off the pitch. His experience and professionalism have been vital for the Limpopo-based club, and there is no indication that retirement is imminent.
Optimism for Zimbabwe’s Future
Zimbabwe’s return to the AFCON stage came after nearly three years away from international football due to suspension, making their competitiveness even more encouraging. With a new generation of players emerging, Arubi believes the Warriors are heading in the right direction.
For now, the seasoned shot-stopper is focused on club football in South Africa — proof that at 40, Washington Arubi is still very much part of the game, and not ready to fade quietly into the background.