Manchester City youth development team defender Jadel Katongo will not be switching his international allegiance to Zambia ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite being named in the Chipolopolo’s 55-member provisional squad.

Sources indicate that his representatives are keen for him to continue pursuing a career with England, and as a result, he will not accept the Chipolopolo call-up.

This marks the second time Katongo has declined an invitation to represent Zambia.

Born to a Zambian father and a British mother, the 21-year-old defender was first invited to play for Zambia in 2022, when he was selected for the U-23 AFCON squad. However, he did not honour the call-up, as he was advised to join England’s U-20 side ahead of the Youth Euros.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) paused efforts to secure his commitment until late last year, when former coach Avram Grant told BolaNews that Katongo had expressed interest in playing for Zambia.

While his father is said to have consistently hoped he would represent Zambia, sources tell BolaNews that his management was still aiming for an England opportunity, delaying his final decision.

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