The Sunday Mail
Sports Reporter
IN the decade they have been in the Premier Soccer League, FC Platinum have been known for spending big on players.
The investment has paid off for the Zvishavane platinum miners, who have dominated the Premiership since winning their first title in 2017. With a blend of young and seasoned players they acquired from clubs in and out of the country, the team have since claimed two Chibuku Super Cup titles.
For a decade, the miners’ start to every season has always been preceded by marquee signings. But all that has changed.
They have turned their focus on grooming young players.
Club spokesperson Chido Chizondo said they has been a paradigm shift in their recruitment policy.
“A number of players have left the club in line with our new direction of ensuring we have an average age of players that can ensure sustainability going forward,” said Chizondo.
The miners are keen to finally make an impact in the CAF Champions League, where they have struggled.
“Our journey with the local league has been very successful. However, we are looking into Africa and beyond.
“Our track record in Africa has not been the best and we realised that there were many things we needed to change as we transition into a global brand.
“Ultimately, it’s the small things you do on a day-to-day basis that become your journey to achieving and reaching different goals.
“This shift is not an ultimate solution, but among the many other things the club is doing to transform itself into a global brand.”
Following their partnership with Spanish side Real Betis last year, the club also had to review its recruitment policy.
“We are keen on having a youthful side. However, from a vision perspective, it is … about ensuring we are more competitive on the African continent in the next five years.
“As mentioned earlier, the average squad age is crucial, especially if you are taking note of our current synergies with teams like Real Betis.
“Our hope is that some players will be picked up in Africa as we compete or by other clubs internationally, who share our direction of grooming and empowering young players.
“Our vision is to become a leading self-sustaining global football brand,” Chizondo said.
The Zvishavane-based side, she added, was prepared to face some of the upheaval that come with major policy changes.
“We also appreciate that change comes with its share of disappointments and resistance, but we are very confident in the new direction that we are taking as a club.”
FC Platinum have so far seen the departures of Silas Songani, Stanley Ngala, Rahman Kutsanzira, Ralph Kawondera and Kelvin Madzongwe.
Skipper and goalkeeper Petros Mhari is also on his way out.
