FAZ, Avram Grant Mutually End Partnership After Nearly Three Years

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced the mutual separation with Chipolopolo head coach Avram Grant, bringing an end to the Israeli tactician’s tenure that began in December 2022.

In a statement issued by FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande, the association confirmed that both parties had agreed to part ways amicably, citing the need to chart a new direction for the senior men’s national team.

“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has agreed to mutually separate with Zambia Senior Men’s National Team coach Avram Grant,” Shepande said. “The two parties agreed to mutually separate with FAZ wishing Mr. Grant the best of luck in his future endeavours. The rest of the details will be communicated in due course. For now, we can only thank Mr. Grant for his contribution to the Zambian game.”

Grant, who signed a two-year contract on 22 December 2022, guided Zambia to two consecutive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifications — ending the nation’s eight-year absence from the continental stage. The Chipolopolo are among the 24 nations that have qualified for the Morocco 2025 AFCON, where they are drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros.

In a farewell message posted on his Instagram account, Grant expressed pride in his achievements and gratitude toward the Zambian football community.

“After almost three years, my time as head coach of the Zambia men’s national team has come to an end. I am proud to leave the team in a much better position than when I inherited it,” Grant wrote.
“After years without qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations, I managed to take the team to two successive AFCONs. I hope one day this great country qualifies for a World Cup for the first time in its long football history.”

Grant also thanked the players, technical staff, and FAZ officials, including former president Andrew Kamanga, for their support.

“Thank you to the players, staff, and the people of Zambia who were so supportive. I wish the team every success for the future,” he concluded.

FAZ is expected to announce the next steps regarding the Chipolopolo’s technical leadership in the coming days, as preparations for the Morocco 2025 AFCON continue.