LUSAKA – MTN Super League side Zanaco FC have strengthened their technical department with the appointments of Thomson Matenda as Head of Sports Science and Senior Physical Trainer and Charles Kalumba Mpunga as Goalkeeper Trainer ahead of the new season.
The duo return to the Bankers after previously serving the club during the 2019/20 campaign, bringing with them a wealth of experience and familiarity with the club’s environment as preparations for the 2026/27 season gather pace.
Matenda fills a role that had been vacant and arrives with an impressive résumé in sports science and athletic performance. The highly qualified fitness expert has worked with the Zimbabwe senior national team, Dynamos FC, Harare City, Costa do Sol of Mozambique, ZESCO United, and most recently Tanzanian side Singida Black Stars SC. He holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Science, several postgraduate qualifications in sports and education, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Sports Science.
Meanwhile, Mpunga returns to the club as Goalkeeper Trainer, replacing Emmanuel Kalale following the expiry of his contract at the end of last season. A familiar figure at Zanaco, Mpunga began his coaching career with the Lusaka-based club in 2011 before taking up roles at Indeni FC and Mufulira Wanderers. He most recently served as head coach of Mufulira Wanderers Queens during the 2025/26 campaign.
In a statement, Zanaco said the appointments are part of efforts to strengthen the club’s technical bench ahead of the new season. The club also welcomed both coaches back, expressing confidence that their experience and expertise will play a key role as the Bankers prepare for the challenges of the upcoming MTN Super League campaign.
