Sredojevic Calls for Strategic Overhaul in Zambian Football Development

Former Chipolopolo coach Milutin Sredojevic has identified excessive experimentation and poor squad balance as key factors behind Zambia's disappointing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, while urging a strategic reset that could revitalise the nation's football fortunes.

The Serbian tactician, who previously guided Zambia's national team, pointed to a critical imbalance between youthful enthusiasm and veteran leadership as the team's Achilles heel.

Central to Sredojevic's critique is what he describes as "excessive experimentation" in player selection—a revolving door approach that prevented the team from developing the cohesion and understanding essential for tournament success.

He advocates for a comprehensive long-term strategy that maps out clear pathways for player development and integration into the national setup. This structured approach would ensure promising youngsters mature alongside experienced professionals, creating the balanced squads Zambia has historically deployed in its most successful AFCON campaigns.

With the Football Association of Zambia now facing crucial decisions about the team's direction, Sredojevic's insights offer a roadmap. Zambia now must rebuild to return to the competitive Chipolopolo era that previously captured continental glory.