Former Maccabi Petah Tikva Player Lamka Banda Disappears Amid Saudi Offer and Family Drama

Lamka Banda, a Zambian winger formerly signed by Maccabi Petah Tikva for around 2 million euros, has mysteriously disappeared and cut off all contact with his current Italian club Lecce. Banda was expected to report for medical tests and join Lecce's training camp in Austria by mid-July but has since vanished, sparking concern in Italy.

The situation has gained significant media attention not only due to the sporting implications but also because of a personal drama. Banda recently married in Zambia and was seen at Lusaka airport with his new wife. However, his wife has since unfollowed him on Instagram and deleted their shared photos, fueling rumors of family issues alongside the professional uncertainty.

Reports from Italy suggest Banda's disappearance may be linked to an astronomical financial offer from a Gulf club, likely Saudi Arabia's Al-Fateh. Lecce recently extended Banda's contract until 2027 and rejected a lower transfer bid, leading to speculation that Banda's absence is a pressure tactic to force a release.

Lecce's president, Saverio Sticchi Damiani, expressed shock and disappointment at Banda's conduct during a press conference, stating, "Honestly, this is a situation I ask myself about as well. Nothing like this has happened in my 11 years at the club." He emphasized that the club will pursue legal action to protect its contractual rights and condemned Banda's chosen approach to resolving the matter.

The club is currently reviewing the situation from a legal standpoint and plans to take strict measures against the player if necessary.