Zambian international midfielder Emmanuel Banda is back in European football after signing with Israeli Premier League outfit Maccabi Bnei Reineh. The 27-year-old returns to top-flight action following the expiry of his one-year deal at Saudi Arabian second-tier club Al-Tai SC.
The talented central midfielder enjoyed a solid stint in Saudi Arabia, notching five goals and two assists in 28 appearances across all competitions. His consistency and creative flair in the middle of the park caught the attention of the Israeli side, who believe his experience and technical quality will add a new dimension to their squad.
“The Benny Reyna Club is pleased to announce the addition of Zambian midfielder Emmanuel Banda,” the club stated in its official unveiling. “We wish Emmanuel much success and believe he will contribute a lot to the success of the team in the coming season.”
Banda’s career has taken him across some of Europe’s notable leagues. He previously turned out for Swedish giants Djurgårdens IF, Croatian side HNK Rijeka, and Belgian club KVO Oostende. He also enjoyed a brief spell in France with Ligue 2 outfit AS Béziers.
At Djurgårdens, Banda made 56 appearances over three seasons, scoring nine goals between 2020 and 2022. His move to Rijeka in January 2023 saw him make 50 appearances and be directly involved in six goals. Before that, his time in Belgium with Oostende saw him register four goals in 27 matches, playing alongside compatriot Fashion Sakala.
Banda’s European adventure began after leaving Nchanga Rangers for Portugal, and he has since built a reputation as a versatile, hard-working midfielder with a knack for scoring crucial goals.
On the international stage, Banda has made 34 appearances for the Chipolopolo Boys. His breakthrough came as part of the golden Zambia U-20 squad that won the 2017 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil — a tournament that announced him as one of the country’s brightest prospects.
Now, with Maccabi Bnei Reineh, Banda will be aiming to use his European experience to anchor the midfield, create chances, and guide his new side to a strong 2025/26 Israeli Premier League campaign.
