Australia-based winger-cum-striker Lawrence Milanzi has declared his openness to representing the Zambia national team, saying he is ready to play for whichever country calls him first between Zambia and Australia.
Milanzi recently sparked debate after a video emerged of him featuring for Burundi at an Australia-based community tournament.
Speaking exclusively to BolaNews, the 23-year-old clarified the situation, stating that his participation was not an official national team appearance.
Born and raised in Lusaka’s Chilenje township, Milanzi began his football journey playing for Young Tito FC before leaving Zambia for Australia at the age of 13. He joined Doveton Soccer Club U14s, where he spent most of his early football years.
He later moved to Dandenong Thunder, starting with the U20s before breaking into the senior team. Milanzi currently plays for Essendon Royals, who play in Melbourne’s second-tier division.
Coming from a football-passionate family, Milanzi says his biggest motivation has always come from home.
“I grew up watching my dad and my uncle play football with pride. Seeing what Harry Milanzi and Joseph Milanzi achieved made me believe I could also make a mark. They taught me discipline, passion, and to always dream big,” he told BolaNews.
His brother, Harry Milanzi Jr., plays for MTN Super League side Green Buffaloes, further cementing the family’s strong football roots.
On the Burundi episode, Milanzi explained that the tournament was an informal, Australian-based African community competition.
“It was just a social Africa Cup tournament we have here. Any player can join any team, and there was no Zambian team available, so I joined Burundi ” he said.
Having played in Australia for 11 years, Milanzi remains open about his international future.
“I was invited to represent Australia Under-20, but I didn’t take the offer at that moment because I was still weighing my options. I’m open to representing my country, Zambia, as I grew up in Chilenje. However, if I’m invited to the senior Australia squad, I will also proudly honor the invite. This is a country that has groomed me,” he stated.
The young forward is confident of attracting the attention of Chipolopolo selectors as Zambia looks to widen its talent pool abroad.
In the just-ended season, Milanzi played 20 matches for his side, scoring 17 goals while providing 8 assists.
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