Zambia international Lameck Banda faces disciplinary action from US Lecce after failing to report for pre-season training and cutting communication with the Serie A club.
The 25-year-old winger has not responded to the club’s attempts to contact him for several days, according to Lecce director Stefano Trinchera. Banda was initially expected to return for medical tests and training earlier this month, though the club had previously cited administrative complications regarding his return to Italy. Initial reports suggested Banda had departed Zambia, but the player subsequently stopped answering calls entirely.
Club issues stern warning
Trinchera expressed deep frustration at the player’s continued absence, confirming that Banda would face serious repercussions once located.
“We haven’t heard from Banda for several days,” Trinchera told Nuovo Quotidiano di Puglia. “We are continuing to call Banda in for his medical tests, but receive no reply. We’ll see how long this goes on for. What we can be certain of is that he will pay the consequences for his behaviour.”
The director emphasised the club’s sense of betrayal given their prior support for the player during personal difficulties. Trinchera described the club as feeling “let down” despite having supported Banda through personal matters, calling his conduct surprising.
Contract status and career background
Banda remains tied to the Italian side until June 2027 after Lecce activated an option to extend his contract by an additional year. The Zambia international originally joined the Giallorossi from Israeli Premier League outfit Maccabi Petah Tikva in 2022 for a reported fee of €2 million.
During his time in Serie A, the winger has accumulated 109 competitive appearances for the Salento-based club, contributing nine goals and 12 assists. On the international stage, he has earned 22 senior caps for Zambia, finding the net three times.
The unauthorised absence leaves the player vulnerable to significant sanctions as Lecce prepare for the upcoming Serie A campaign, which is scheduled to commence in mid-August. The club have made clear that continued silence will not be tolerated, with formal disciplinary measures expected should Banda fail to resume contact promptly.