Midfield Maestro Idana Joins Zambian Giants Zanaco FC

Malawian midfield maestro Chimwemwe Idana has officially completed his transfer from Silver Strikers to Zambia National Commercial Bank (Zanaco) FC for an undisclosed fee. The move sees one of Malawi’s most talented footballers make a significant step in his career by joining the Zambian Super League.

Idana, the 2021 TNM Super League Player of the Season, was unveiled on Tuesday alongside seven other new signings for the “Zambian Bankers.” He has penned a two-year contract, set to expire in 2027.

Among the other notable arrivals at Zanaco are midfielder Ian Sindayi from Forest Rangers, highly experienced goalkeeper Francis Mwansa who joins on a free transfer from Green Buffaloes, and central defender Tinkler Sinkala from Kabwe Warriors. Defensive options have also been bolstered with the addition of promising left-back Garvin Mukandamweene from Trident FC and solid left-back John Chishimba from Zesco United. Midfielder Chipo Manda and striker Eliya Mandanji have both joined Zanaco FC on two-season loan deals from Kafue Celtic.

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Chimwemwe Idana’s journey to this international move has been remarkable. He initially joined Bullets Reserve in 2017 before being promoted to the main team in 2018.

There, he quickly established himself as a top player and a fan favorite, known for his relentless effort both defensively and offensively. He was instrumental in helping FCB Nyasa Big Bullets secure three Super League titles.

In early 2023, Idana moved to Silver Strikers on loan from Mbeya City before making the deal permanent, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable presence in the midfield.

The transfer to a foreign club holds significant meaning for Idana and Malawian football. Even as a young player in 2017, former Flames Coach RVG recognized Idana’s unique qualities, calling him up for the national team camp before he had even made a senior appearance for Bullets.

His qualities are indeed “scarce and not easy to replace,” as articulated by Peter Mgangira, who candidly discussed the challenge of filling the void left by Idana.

While acknowledging Idana’s individual brilliance cannot be replicated, Silver Strikers Head Coach Mgangira expressed confidence in the collective strength of his squad to step up.

“I’m glad Chimwemwe has found a new club outside Malawi, which is good for him and for us as a country,” Mgangira stated. “I don’t expect the remaining players to be Idana, as everyone has different skills. Those who stay need to improve and do more.”

Idana’s move to Zanaco FC not only marks a new chapter in his career but also opens doors for him to further develop his skills in a more competitive league, potentially enhancing his contributions to the Malawi national team.