Clifford Mulenga Calls for Structural Reforms in Zambian Football

Former Zambian international Clifford Mulenga has called for urgent restructuring of football clubs in the country, arguing that long-term success can only be achieved through professional sports management and clear strategic planning.

Mulenga, now an international football consultant, said the performance of teams is closely linked to the quality of their management structures, technical benches and playing personnel.

“The success of a team goes hand in hand with the quality of the sports management team, technical bench and players,” Mulenga stated. “Teams in Zambia have ignored this important aspect that contributes to their success.”

He emphasized that modern football requires a well-coordinated management team comprising a Chief Executive Officer, Head Coach, Financial Manager, Marketing Manager, Human Resource Manager, Football Operations Manager, scouts and a Technical Director. According to Mulenga, these key figures must work together to plan player recruitment, budgets, playing philosophy, and define the club’s mission and vision.

Mulenga expressed concern that despite many administrators being aware of these principles, personal interests and micromanagement have hindered progress.

“Micromanagement is killing a lot of clubs and has messed up our football culture because those that can add value are scared to speak out for fear of losing their jobs,” he said.

He further stressed that leaders must allow professionals to execute their responsibilities without interference, adding that accountability can only thrive in an environment free from fear.

Mulenga also noted that realistic budgets and ambitions should guide recruitment and season planning, warning that success cannot be achieved without proper financial and structural planning.

“For the improvement of our football in Zambia, we hope to see this happen going forward,” he said, adding that he was speaking in his personal capacity.