Nagoli calls for youth development investment
Former Warriors midfielder Kennedy Nagoli believes Zimbabwe must invest more in youth development and reduce the number of foreign players in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to restore the country’s football glory days.
Nagoli, the first and only Zimbabwean player to play in Brazil, believes the country can return to its former self football wise by strengthening grassroots and giving young local players more opportunities.
Reflecting on the famous ‘Dream Team’ era under German mentor Reinhard Fabisch, Nagoli said the team benefited from players who were already gaining experience in the domestic league.
“The Dream Team comprised players who participated in the 1991 All-Africa Games, with many of them already playing in the league despite the presence of good foreign players in their teams,” said Nagoli.
“Hence, there is a need to put deliberate moves in place to reinforce our development structures,” he added.
Nagoli also raised concerns over the growing number of foreign players in the PSL, saying their presence can limit opportunities for young Zimbabwean footballers to prove themselves.
He believes clubs should create more room for local talent to gain regular first-team experience and develop their skills.
The former Santos player also called for greater cooperation among football academies to help talented youngsters progress in their careers.
He insisted some academies are unwilling to release players to other institutions with better connections, limiting their chances of securing opportunities abroad.
“It is sad to note that some talented players end up growing old without getting the exposure and experience to play abroad because of a lack of a conducive and united ecosystem between academies.
“We have seen it happening and it needs to change,” he said.
Nagoli believes academies must put players’ interests first and work together to create better pathways for young footballers.
He said investment in youth development, more opportunities for local players and cooperation among academies are key to helping Zimbabwe reclaim its place among Africa’s top football nations.
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