Ex-Chipolopolo star Joel Bwalya believes the next six months will be crucial for prospect Albert Kwangwanda who scored Zambia’s goal in last month’s 2022 COSAFA Cup final 1-0 win over Namibia in Durban.
He was unveiled by Croatian outfit Gorica after signing a two-year deal from Zambian side Kafue Celtic.
“I’m very excited, I’ve always wanted to play in Europe, and now it’s come true. I believe I will adapt quickly to the new environment and team,” Kangwanda said.
Bwalya coached the 23-year-old striker last season at Kafue Celtic during the clubs’ debut appearance in the FAZ Super League but were relegated at the close of the 2021/2022 campaign.
Nonetheless, Kangwanda did not disappoint, finishing fourth on the Zambia league top scorers chart with 12 goals, four behind Golden Boot winner and his 2022 COSAFA Cup strike partner Ricky Banda of Red Arrows.
“Albert has done very well for himself. Of course, there’s still much improvement to be made,” Bwalya told FARPost.
“He is a young man with the right mentality and attributes to make it, but he needs game time wherever he is going to continue his journey. The next six months will be crucial in his career.”
So far, he has gotten six call-ups to the national teams and scored three goals.
He has previously revealed how Milutin Sredojevic taught him the importance of paying attention to external conditions as well as a few tactical aspects.
“My experience under coach Micho was great because he has taught me how to overcome some things, mostly a footballer’s face, playing away or on a big stage such as; weather, the crowd, and referees,” Kangwanda was quoted by ZamFoot.
He becomes the second Zambian to move to the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe. Former Kabwe Warriors midfielder Prince Mumba recently completed his switch to Croatian side NK Istra 1961. Peter Chikola, another Zambian, is undergoing trials at Gorica.
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