Football
Exclusive: Man United Youngster Chooses To Play For Slovakia Over Zambia
Manchester United's Samuel Lusale has chosen to represent Slovakia over Zambia, despite his Zambian heritage. FAZ confirmed Lusale’s decision, but the door remains open if he reconsiders in the future
Image Credits: @samuelLusale via IG
Newly signed Manchester United winger Samuel Lusale has chosen to represent Slovakia over Zambia, according to the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ).
WHO IS LUSALE?
Manchester United in July signed Lusale, a winger of Zambian descent, as their latest addition to their academy from Crystal Palace.
The 17-year-old qualifies to represent Zambia through his father, Chisola Lusale, who reportedly wanted his son to don Zambian colours. However, the youngster has already represented Slovakia.
Lusale is widely regarded as the next major star in European football due to his quickness, unwavering drive to defeat opponents, and slick movement in the final third.
He spent last season at Selhurst Park, playing for Crystal Palace's U-16 and U-18 squads.
DECISION ON LUSALE’S INTERNATIONAL ALLEGIANCE
FAZ confirmed to SportsBoom.com that they had contacted the player, but he decided to continue playing for his mother's country, Slovakia. “We did reach out to his father, and he informed us that the boy has chosen to play for Slovakia,” FAZ technical director Laison Zulu disclosed.
SportsBoom.com further understands that Lusale's father will not compel the player to play for Zambia, but he has assured FAZ that if he changes his mind, they will be notified.
LUSALE’S INTERNATIONAL CAREER
Lusale has already represented Slovakia in the U-17 European Championship, but he is still able to switch international allegiance.
In September of this year, he played for the Slovakia U-18 team in three friendly games against Turkey, the United States, and Wales. He contributed an assist in their 3-2 loss to Wales, and his team tied the other two games 1-1.
He is also touted as the next star for Slovakia's senior national team, following his dream move to Manchester United.
Zulu said the door remains open if he changes his mind. “The door remains open in case he changes his mind in the future.”
Calvin Kaumba Chikenge is a renowned multimedia sports journalist from Zambia, known for his in-depth reporting and captivating feature stories. With eight years of experience in the field, he has built a reputation for telling unique stories that resonate with audiences both locally and globally. His talent and dedication were recognised when he was named the 2023/24 MTN/FAZ Super League Journalist of the Year, highlighting his outstanding contributions to sports journalism in Zambia.