Sweden-based winger Chewe Mukuka has said he wants to represent the Zambia national team, revealing in an exclusive interview with BolaNews that a Chipolopolo call-up would make his career sacrifices worthwhile.
The 26-year-old, who is currently on the books of Swedish fourth-tier outfit IFK Skövde, has also drawn inspiration from Zambia legend Kalusha Bwalya, particularly the former Africa Footballer of the Year’s ability from set pieces.
Born in Ndola in 2000, Mukuka began his career with Lusaka Youth Academy before coming close to joining Lusaka Dynamos under then-coach Wedson Nyirenda. However, the move fell through during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mukuka subsequently moved to the United States through ZISD FC, joining Akron City FC in the National Premier Soccer League. He later featured for Oakland County Football Club in USL League Two before making the move to Sweden in early 2025.
He joined Swedish fourth-tier side IF Haga in 2025, making 15 league appearances, six of which were starts, but finished the campaign without scoring.
His fortunes changed after joining IFK Skövde in 2026, with Mukuka establishing himself as a key attacking player. He has scored seven goals and provided five assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this year, starting 24 matches.
IFK Skövde compete in Division 2 Norra Götaland, Sweden’s fourth tier.
Reflecting on his improved form this season, Mukuka attributed his progress to consistency and a desire to reach greater heights.
“The secret to my good season? Honestly. It’s just been consistency. Consistency shapes mentality. My motivation is the dream to get to bigger heights.”
The winger is now hoping his performances in Sweden can earn him a chance with the Chipolopolo.
“I would definitely love to play for Zambia. For me, a national team call up would mean everything that I have ever sacrificed was worth it. I have been working very hard for a long time; jumping from one continent to another,” revealed Mukuka about his Zambian national team aspirations.
Mukuka on Great Kalu inspiration
Mukuka also spoke about his admiration for Kalusha Bwalya, the Zambia legend who was crowned African Footballer of the Year in 1988.
Although he never watched Kalusha play live, Mukuka said the former Chipolopolo captain’s prowess from free kicks and set pieces has influenced his own style of play.
“I didn’t watch him [Kalusha Bwalya] play live but I have seen some of his videos. The freekicks that he used to take. When I talk about my playstyle I shoot freekicks too, corners and other set pieces. When I shoot freekicks I score them, usually. That would be my contribution to the national team; someone similar to Kalusha Bwalya.”
Mukuka will now look to help IFK Skövde climb the Swedish football pyramid, while harbouring ambitions of one day playing in the Swedish top flight or Saudi Arabia.
