Mufulira Wanderers head coach Lameck Banda has dismissed suggestions that the club is undergoing a major rebuild, insisting the nine-time Zambian champions are instead reinforcing the squad ahead of the new season.
Banda issued a detailed statement following recent reports linking a number of first-team departures to a significant overhaul of the playing squad, arguing that such claims fail to reflect the individual circumstances behind each player’s exit.
The coach stressed that while football analysis is part of the game, it should be based on verified facts and balanced reporting.
“I have taken note of the recent article suggesting that Mufulira Wanderers are undergoing a major rebuild and that the pressure is now on Head Coach Lameck Banda,” he said.
“Football analysis is part of the game, and everyone is entitled to their opinion. However, such analysis should be balanced and based on verified facts.”
Banda went on to clarify the reasons behind several departures from Shinde Stadium.
According to the coach, Collins Makungu was sold to ZANACO, Owen Mwamba opted to pursue a new opportunity elsewhere, while Burton Chambeshi left following disagreements over the terms of his contract. Gilbert Tentani departed after his contract expired and he declined to renew, whereas Paul Tembo, John Chilangwa and Evans Chisenga all exited due to disciplinary and performance-related issues.
The Wanderers boss said it was therefore inaccurate to portray all the exits as decisions taken by the technical bench or as evidence that the club was dismantling its squad.
Instead, Banda described the changes as part of a carefully planned recruitment strategy aimed at strengthening key areas of the team.
“It is also important to clarify that Mufulira Wanderers are not rebuilding; we are reinforcing,” he said.
“Our recruitment has been carefully planned to strengthen specific areas while maintaining the team’s competitiveness and ambitions. The objective is to improve the quality of the squad, not to start from scratch.”
Banda also appealed to supporters to remain patient during the transfer period and urged the media to seek clarification from the club whenever necessary to ensure accurate and balanced reporting.
“Ultimately, our work will be judged by our performances on the pitch,” he added. “We remain fully committed to building a stronger and more competitive Mufulira Wanderers Football Club.”
