By Emmanuel the Soccer Brain
Former Zambia national team coach and ex-Bundesliga defender Moses Sichone believes Patson Daka has everything required to succeed at Hamburger SV, while stressing that strong club management is the foundation of sustained success in football.
Sichone, one of only three Zambians to have played in the Bundesliga alongside Christopher Katongo and Andrew Sinkala, worked with Daka during his time with the Zambia national team.
Speaking on ZNBC’s Sports Day programme hosted by Matimba Nkonje, Sichone described Hamburg as one of Germany’s most historic clubs and said Daka’s move represents another significant milestone for Zambian football.
“Hamburg is a traditional and big club. You will see it whenever Patson is playing; they love the team. A lot of players have played for that club, including the Namibian coach Benjamin Collins. This is a club where a lot of African players have featured, so it is a good thing that Patson has signed for them,” Sichone said.
The former defender reflected on Hamburg’s fluctuating fortunes, arguing that even the biggest clubs can decline without effective leadership.
“Back in the day, it was one of the biggest clubs in Germany, but they were eventually relegated, and that happened because of the management,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with Zambian football, Sichone said clubs such as Nkana and Zesco United illustrate how poor planning at boardroom level can ultimately affect performances on the pitch.
“Examples are teams like Zesco United and Nkana. Once the management does not have a plan, these are things that happen in football. It also affects the players.”
He insisted that success begins long before kick-off.
“Football is not only played on the pitch. It starts outside the pitch through the way management plans for the club. The players simply go out and finish the job.”
Sichone pointed to Power Dynamos’ back-to-back league titles as evidence of the impact of sound administration and long-term planning.
“Power Dynamos have become consecutive champions because the management has planned for each season and the players are given what they deserve. Everyone who works for the club is treated fairly.”
Turning to Daka’s prospects in Germany, Sichone urged the striker to embrace the demands and mentality of the Bundesliga.
“As they say, when you go to Rome, do what the Romans do. My advice to Daka is that we know he is a hard worker. The only thing he has to work on is the mentality.”
He believes Daka already possesses the qualities German football values most.
“They love players with a fighting spirit, which I know Patson has. As a striker, your job is to score goals.”
Sichone added that Daka’s work ethic, humility and discipline make him well equipped to thrive at Hamburg.
“I was not surprised because he is a hard worker, very humble and disciplined. Once he settles in Hamburg, I am sure he will score goals and become a fans’ favourite.”
He also praised Lubambo Musonda for his progress in Germany and expressed hope that more Zambian players will establish themselves in European football.
“Lubambo Musonda is also doing well in Germany. I hope others can emulate him.”
