Zambian football legend Charles Musonda, popularly known as Charly Cool, has returned to the local football scene after four decades in Europe, following his appointment as NAPSA Stars Director of Football Development and Advisory.
Musonda left Zambia in 1986 as a teenager to join Belgian side Cercle Brugge before moving to European giants RSC Anderlecht, where he established himself as one of Zambia’s notable football exports. During his time at Anderlecht, he became the first Zambian to feature in a European club final when the Belgian side faced Sampdoria.
Following his playing career, Musonda continued his involvement in football through coaching and development, serving as a youth coach at Anderlecht before later joining TP Mazembe. His latest appointment marks a new chapter in his career, bringing his experience back to Zambia to support the development of local football talent.
NAPSA Stars confirmed the appointment in an announcement, stating that Musonda would help strengthen the club’s player development pathways, improve training structures, contribute to technical scouting and talent identification, and provide strategic guidance to its football operations.
The appointment also carries a historical connection to Zambian football. During his playing days, Musonda partnered in midfield with the late Derby Makinka, who featured for Profound Warriors, the predecessors of NAPSA Stars. The pair represented Zambia during an era in which the national team competed against some of Africa’s leading football nations.
NAPSA Stars Board Chairperson John Chundu welcomed Musonda’s arrival, saying the club was pleased to bring in a respected football figure whose experience and understanding of the game would help strengthen its structures.
“We are delighted to welcome Charles Musonda to NAPSA Stars as Director of Football Development and Advisory. Charles is a respected football icon whose experience, professionalism, and deep understanding of the game will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our football structures and build a sustainable future for the Club,” Chundu said.
He added that the appointment reflected the club’s commitment to talent development, technical excellence and long-term success, expressing confidence that Musonda’s expertise would contribute to the next stage of NAPSA Stars’ growth.
Musonda also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity, saying he was looking forward to working with the club as it continued to develop.
“I am humbled to be at NAPSA Stars, and I look forward to working with the team as we contribute to the Club’s growth and development,” he said.
In his new role, Musonda is expected to contribute to the identification and nurturing of emerging players while helping NAPSA Stars strengthen its football development structures. The club has welcomed the former Anderlecht player and expressed its anticipation of working with him to build a stronger future.
His return brings extensive playing and coaching experience into NAPSA Stars’ football development plans, with the club looking to strengthen its structures and create pathways for the next generation of Zambian talent.
