Georgian football manager and scout Irakli Khvedeliani says there is a need to exchange programs between Zambian academies and those in Europe in a bid to develop players that are ready for the European market. 

Khvedeliani was in Zambia at the invitation of Mulambo Haimbe, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for the Scouting Tournament in Lusaka.

Between December  21 and 25, he monitored hundreds of players. 

In an interview with Bolanews, Khvedeliani said Zambia has talent but there was a need to tie some loose ends. 

“I am very happy that there is such a good trend in Zambia. Of course, for the development of football, football academies are very important. Young footballers should have a chance to develop in the right way.

“My first piece of advice concerns the training process. In order to achieve the goal and get good materials from these talented players, it is necessary to invite coaches from Europe who have good qualifications, education and experience,” he said. 

He said European coaches have a lot to share with both African players and coaches.

“These European coaches will help the players to develop. Also, young local coaches who are ready to receive useful information will get a lot from these coaches.

“Once the players from Zambia are prepared with the right methods, there will be more and more interest from European scouts and top clubs too,” he said.

Recently, Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant said there is a need for Zambia to have a lot of players in Europe to enable the national team to compete at a high level.