Barely a year after leaving FC Muza, Lameck Banda has rejoined the club, setting a record as the first Zambian coach to switch teams three times in one calendar year.
Banda initially parted ways with FC Muza at the start of the 2023–24 season to take the helm at Lumwana Radiant in National Division One. His tenure there was brief, ending with mutual consent after a few months.
His next stop was Prison Leopards, where he aimed to steer the team from relegation in the Zambian Super League. Despite his efforts, the club faced relegation, and on June 14th, they announced Banda’s departure by mutual agreement.
The Banda and Muza reunion
Just 13 days later, Banda returned to FC Muza, a club he previously led to continental football qualification in the 2022–23 season. His remarkable achievement included guiding the team to the ABSA Cup final, although they fell to Forest Rangers in the decisive match.
“Maestro United Zambia Football Club (F.C MUZA) wishes to announce the appointment of Lameck Banda as new club head coach with immediate effect,” the club announced.
Banda’s familiarity with the FC Muza squad, stemming from his time in the club’s youth system, played a significant role in his reappointment. However, his initial departure was said to be due to his qualifications falling short of the requirements to lead the team in continental competitions. His successor, Mathews Ndlobvu, was unable to secure a top-two finish, leading to his contract not being renewed.
In his new stint, Banda will be supported by assistants Ernest Malambo and Cosmas Mujika. Masauso Phiri and Matthews Mwale will continue their roles as goalkeeper coach and equipment manager, respectively. Additionally, Benson Chiwaya, formerly with Nchanga Rangers and Circuit City, has been appointed as the club’s Physical Trainer.
The specifics of Banda’s new contract remain undisclosed, as the official statement from FC Muza did not provide details on its length.
