Former Zambia midfielder Charles Musonda has called for a deliberate and long-term approach to help the Chipolopolo qualify for the 2030 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

Musonda also urged the country to strengthen its performances in CAF interclub competitions and select players based on merit.

He suggested that Zambia should focus on helping clubs such as Power Dynamos and Arrows succeed in CAF competitions while using those platforms to develop more players for the national team.

He also called for the inclusion of Zambian players based abroad, regardless of the league they play in, provided they can improve the national team.

“Select foreign professionals on merit, regardless of the league they play in. Encourage our top clubs to recruit the best Zambian talent,” Musonda said.

He cited countries such as South Africa, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco, whose clubs regularly go deep in CAF competitions and whose national teams benefit from players gaining experience at the continental level.

“Most African countries’ top players are professionals in Europe, while others gain valuable experience by going deep in CAF competitions like South Africa, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria or Morocco. Mind you, all those ten African representatives would love to go back again, and teams will increase from 10,” he stated.

Musonda further urged Zambia to turn Heroes Stadium and Levy Mwanawasa Stadium into strong home venues by winning every home match.

He also called for the need to consistently monitor players, including young Zambians playing abroad, urging selectors to consider anyone capable of strengthening the national team.

“Plan now. Monitor players closely. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Even if a young Zambian is playing in Egypt, take him seriously. If he can improve the national team, give him the opportunity,” he said.