In a bold move to restore its competitive edge, Zanaco Football Club has officially unveiled eight new signings as part of a significant squad overhaul ahead of the 2025/2026 MTN Super League season, set to kick off on August 16. The revamp signals coach Mumamba Numba’s intent to turn the page on a disappointing previous campaign and reignite the Bankers’ title aspirations.
The new additions are expected to inject energy, depth, and quality across key areas of the pitch, offering a much-needed balance between youth and experience. Among the standout signings is highly-rated goalkeeper Francis Mwansa, who joins from Green Buffaloes on a free transfer. Mwansa has committed to a three-year deal and is anticipated to play a pivotal role in strengthening Zanaco’s defence.
Also joining the Bankers is Ian Sindayi, a versatile midfielder from Forest Rangers, known for his vision and control in the middle of the park. His addition is set to enhance Zanaco’s ability to dictate tempo and transition quickly.
In defence, the club has secured the services of Tinkler Sinkala, a commanding centre-back from Kabwe Warriors, and Garvin Mukandamweene, a promising left-back from Trident FC. Their arrival is expected to bring solidity and fresh options to a backline that struggled for consistency last season.
Zanaco has also dipped into the regional market, signing Chimwemwe Idana, a dynamic Malawian midfielder from Silver Strikers. Idana brings international experience and is widely regarded for his ball progression and creative spark.
Adding further depth to the left side of defence is John Chishimba, who arrives from Zesco United. Known for his overlapping runs and defensive awareness, Chishimba is expected to offer healthy competition at full-back.
Rounding off the list of new signings are Chipo Manda, a central midfielder, and Eliya Mandanji, a powerful striker—both signed from Kafue Celtic. Manda is praised for his box-to-box abilities, while Mandanji’s physicality and eye for goal could offer the firepower Zanaco lacked up front.
Coach Mumamba Numba expressed optimism about the new-look squad, stating that the additions reflect the club’s ambition to challenge for honors and return to the upper echelons of Zambian football.
“This is a new chapter for Zanaco. The players we’ve brought in are here to compete, to fight, and to restore pride in the badge. We are building a team that can challenge not just domestically, but also make an impact in continental football,” Numba said.
With pre-season preparations well underway, the focus now shifts to integrating the new arrivals and fine-tuning tactics before the season opener. The Bankers will be under pressure to hit the ground running as they look to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in the MTN Super League.
Zanaco’s fans, who endured a rollercoaster campaign last season, will be watching closely and hoping that this ambitious rebuild pays off.