“Wrong Players, Wrong Priorities”: Nebart Phiri Slams Zambia’s Football Export Failures
Unattached coach Nebart Phiri, a man who tasted silver in the trenches of the Copperbelt Provincial Division One with Zambezi Portland FC and once stood on the touchline of the Zambian Premier League as First Assistant at Nakambala Leopards, has detonated a truth bomb within the nation’s footballing circles. His assessment? A harsh, unflinching look at why Zambian talent, despite flashes of brilliance, often fails to truly ignite on the grand European stage.
Phiri doesn’t mince words. “The fact that Zambian players have failed to make a name in European Leagues shows that wrong players who are not talented and average go there to only make money instead of making a name which will earn them more money.” It’s a brutal diagnosis, one that cuts through the often-optimistic narrative surrounding Zambian exports. He paints a picture of players prioritizing immediate financial gain over the enduring legacy built on skill and impact.
But Phiri’s critique doesn’t stop at those who make the leap abroad. His gaze sweeps across the local landscape, landing on what he perceives as a systemic flaw in talent identification and utilization. “We need to find a solution before our truly talented boys who are hidden in compounds (komboni) perish with talent.” This is a passionate plea for the untapped potential languishing in the grassroots, the raw diamonds yet to be discovered and polished.
His argument takes a controversial turn, venturing into the realm of physical attributes. “The physical structure of human body as for scientific research covers Zambian players and why are we so selfish that we take average talent to compete on global stage?” This statement, while potentially sparking debate and requiring deeper scientific backing, underscores Phiri’s frustration with what he sees as a mismatch between the players selected and the demands of elite European football.
The coach then turns his attention to the perplexing decisions within local clubs, citing recent relegations as evidence of flawed selection processes. “Even in local clubs, some clubs like Forest Rangers FC, Lumwana Radiants FC and Even Indeni FC have been relegated because of poor selection of players who played most of the games putting on the bench quality players. What kind of coaches and chairmen do we have who can see bad talent as good players and good talent as bench warmers?” The question hangs heavy in the air, a damning indictment of those entrusted with shaping the future of Zambian football.
Phiri’s frustration boils over, directly addressing those who might feel uncomfortable with his blunt assessment. “Seriously, if you read this article and feel pain because an speaking this truth, you will always be praising Brazilian players and see all Zambian players flopping in Europe. After flopping in European Leagues, they go to another league to earn some money.” He draws a stark contrast, highlighting the consistent success of other nations while lamenting the cyclical pattern of Zambian players struggling in top leagues before seeking more modest paydays elsewhere.
This isn’t just a rant; it’s a desperate call to action. “Think and let’s find a solution,” Phiri implores, extending an invitation for introspection and collective problem-solving. His words, though potentially uncomfortable for some, resonate with a raw honesty that demands attention. They paint a picture of hidden potential, questionable decisions, and a yearning for a system that truly nurtures and showcases the best of Zambian football on the world stage. The “komboni’s silent scream” for opportunity might just have found its voice in the unattached coach Nebart Phiri.
