(By Vinjeru Ngwira)
Civil Service United have appointed former captain Emmanuel Zoya as assistant coach, marking his return to the club in a new technical role. He will assist head coach Abbás Makawa as the team prepares for upcoming competitions, with the club yet to officially unveil its full technical structure.
The appointment follows recent changes in the technical bench, which saw Wilson Chidati reassigned to the reserve team, while Charles Ben had been serving in an interim assistant role. Zoya’s return is viewed as a boost in experience and leadership, given his deep connection with the club as a former player and captain.
Club officials believe Zoya’s presence will also help bridge the gap between players and the technical panel, as his long history at the club gives him a strong understanding of the team’s culture and expectations. His return is also expected to add stability and continuity as Civil Service United look to improve their performances in upcoming fixtures.
Zoya’s football journey began in Likuni with Likuni Parish before moving to Tycoon FC, now Likuni Spurs. He also featured for Young Destroyers and Malewezi FC in his early career, which helped shape his development before reaching top-flight football.
He rose to prominence in 2005 when he joined Civil Service United after impressing in the Coca-Cola Schools competition. Initially a midfielder, he was later converted into a defender, a move that defined his career and established him as a reliable figure at the heart of defence.
During his ten-year spell at Civil Service United, Zoya became a key player and later captain, helping the club secure domestic silverware including the Presidential Cup and Standard Bank Cup.
In 2016, he joined Nyasa Big Bullets, where he enjoyed major success. His 2017 season stood out as he was named TNM Super League Best Defender, while also contributing goals and helping the team win both the league title and the Presidential Cup.
A knee injury in 2018 slowed his progress and eventually led to his exit. He later returned to Civil Service United for a final playing stint before retiring in 2020.
Zoya also represented Malawi at international level, earning more than ten caps with the Flames. Since retiring, he has remained active in football development through Soccer Cents School in Likuni and Mpira Mmudzi Mwathu Academy, where he continues to nurture young talent.