Fernandez Praises Kafue Celtic’s Youth Development During Visit to Crocs Swamp Ground

French football consultant Nicolas Fernandez has commended Kafue Celtic’s youth development strategy, describing it as a model for long-term success in Zambian football. Speaking during a visit to the Crocs Swamp Ground in Chambali, where the club is preparing for a crucial Match Day 34 fixture against Chambishi FC, Fernandez said the club’s emphasis on nurturing young talent is laying the foundation for a sustainable future.

Fernandez, who works alongside fellow consultant Freddy Cane, has been a regular visitor to Zambia and Kafue Celtic in particular, helping to shape the club’s footballing philosophy and coaching methodology.

“We come here very often to exchange with the coaches and provide input that helps build the development of the club,” said Fernandez. “Our focus is especially on the youngest categories, the Baby Crocs, the Little Crocs, the Junior Crocs, because we believe that future success depends on the hard work we invest in them now.”

The Frenchman emphasized that Kafue Celtic’s vision balances short-term competitiveness with a long-term developmental outlook, a dual approach he sees as critical for producing top-level players.

“Football is unique in that you must manage both the short term, winning games, and the long term, developing talent,” he said. “We want to dominate games by controlling the ball, be competitive in every aspect, and most importantly, build confident, creative players.”

Kafue Celtic has gained recognition in Zambia for its consistent investment in youth talent, and Fernandez was quick to credit club president Likawan for establishing an environment conducive to growth.

“The president has steadily put in place what’s needed, from quality facilities to good coaches, to help reach our objectives,” Fernandez noted. “Our setup allows young players to earn meaningful playing time in the right competitions.”

In addition to consulting on match tactics and technical development, Fernandez is actively involved in shaping the club’s coaching structure, working closely with local staff.

“It’s a collaborative process. We meet regularly with the coaches to share ideas and build the training programs together,” he said. “That’s how we’ll reach our goals, by learning from each other.”

Although his current visit coincides with a major match, Fernandez said his primary focus this time is on the younger squads, as part of preparations for the next season.

“This week is about improving the level of coaching and development in our youngest teams,” he said. “We’re also discussing the organization for next season so we can continue raising the bar.”

Kafue Celtic’s recent success at an international youth tournament in Dubai, where the club emerged victorious in both the Under-14 and Under-16 categories, was a highlight Fernandez pointed to with pride.

“We were thrilled by the results, but more importantly, by the way the boys played,” he said. “Winning is good, but what matters more is playing in a way that reflects our philosophy.”

Fernandez praised the young players for their maturity and character, but cautioned against complacency.

“They’re fantastic players and fantastic people, and that’s essential. But we must keep them humble,” he warned. “Winning at U14 or U16 doesn’t guarantee success at senior level. They still have crucial years ahead, and it’s the daily effort that counts.”

Kafue Celtic will host Chambishi FC this Sunday at 15:00 hours at Croxton Grounds in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. But as the senior squad gears up for battle, it is clear that the heart of the club’s ambitions lies with the future stars already making their mark, under the watchful guidance of coaches, consultants, and a philosophy rooted in patience and purpose.