May 15, 2022

Naturalization of Jadel Katongo expected to start next week

England born defender Jadel Katongo could soon be featuring for the Chipolopolo Boys, the ZamFoot Crew understands.

The 17 year old who turns out for the Manchester City U-18 could be the latest naturalized player on the Zambia national team books.

He could join United States of America based Aime Mabika and England born Frankie Chisenga Musonda who have already featured for Chipolopolo in friendly games. Katongo has represented England at U-15,U-16, U-17 and U-18.

The ZamFoot Crew can reveal that former Chipolopolo Boys coach Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic initially made contact but there was a bit if resistance which seems to have been cleared now and the boy is ready to represent his fathers homeland.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 15: Jadel Katongo of Manchester City smiles as he warms up prior to the UEFA Youth League match between Manchester City and RB Leipzig at Manchester City Football Academy on September 15, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Manchester City FC/Manchester City FC via Getty Images)

The ZamFoot Crew understands that the process of neutralizing the youngster will start next week in readiness for the AFCON qualifiers.

The Copper Bullets were drawn in group H alongside hosts Côte d’Ivoire, Comoros and Lesotho for the qualifiers of the 34th edition of the international men’s football championship of Africa.

Aljosa Asanovic’s men will start their campaign with an away fixture against the 2015 Champions, Ivory Coast on May 30th.

Zambia will be desperate to make it to the continental showpiece after missing the last three consecutive tournaments.

Zambia last qualified for the tournament in 2015 under now Namungo FC boss Honor Janza.