The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that it has mutually parted ways with Chipolopolo head coach Avram Grant, ending his tenure less than two months before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
In a statement issued from Football House in Lusaka on 29 October 2025, FAZ announced that both parties had agreed to conclude their working relationship amicably.
“The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has agreed to mutually separate with Zambia Senior Men’s National Team coach Avram Grant,” the statement read. “The association wishes Mr Grant the best of luck in his future endeavours and thanks him for his contribution to the Zambian game.”
The decision brings to an end a tenure that began on 22 December 2022, when Grant was appointed on a two-year contract later extended to January 2027. During that period, the former Chelsea and West Ham United manager guided Zambia to back-to-back AFCON qualifications, returning the national side to continental competition after nearly a decade away.
Under Grant’s leadership, Zambia reached the 2024 and 2025/26 AFCON finals. The Chipolopolo are drawn in Group A of the Morocco 2025 tournament alongside Morocco, Mali and Comoros.
Despite those achievements, recent performances in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers prompted growing scrutiny. Zambia managed only two victories on the pitch and one additional win awarded by the boardroom. After eight matches the team stood fourth in Group E with nine points, scoring 10 goals and conceding 10.
Grant’s overall record in charge of Zambia stands at 30 matches, with 11 wins, 4 draws, and 15 defeats across all competitions.
The announcement follows weeks of speculation about the coach’s future after government suspended funding to the national team pending a performance review. The Ministry of Sports had requested FAZ to outline measures being taken to improve results before resources could be released.
In a farewell message shared on his verified Instagram account, Avram Grant confirmed his departure and expressed gratitude to Zambia for the opportunity to serve.
“After almost three years, my time as head coach of the Zambia men’s national team has come to an end. I’m proud to leave the team in a better position than when I inherited it,” he wrote. “We qualified for two successive AFCONs, and the players are strong and ready for the challenges ahead. I hope that one day this great country qualifies for a World Cup for the first time in its history.”
Grant also thanked former FAZ President Andrew Kamanga, the players, technical staff, and supporters for their cooperation. “I would like to thank the people of Zambia who stood by me and gave me strength,” he said.
FAZ Head of Media and Communications Nkweto Tembwe acknowledged Grant’s contribution and professionalism. “Avram Grant’s experience helped to stabilise the team and secure Zambia’s return to Africa’s biggest football stage. The association thanks him for his dedication,” he said.
FAZ indicated that interim technical arrangements will be announced shortly as preparations continue for the Morocco 2025 AFCON. The association reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term development of the Chipolopolo and to ensuring a smooth transition in the technical bench.
Grant departs after nearly three years at the helm, having restored Zambia’s AFCON qualification record but falling short of expectations in the World Cup campaign.
He should never have been appointed in the first place. We now need a young, international coach to work with Sichone.