LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has employed a staggering 13 coaches over the past 14 years in a bid to restore the Malawi national football team’s glory.
This high turnover of coaches highlights FAM’s desperation to achieve success on the international stage.
But the constant change in leadership has raised questions about the long-term stability and direction of the Flames.
Since 2010, the Flames have struggled to maintain consistent performance, prompting FAM to frequently reshuffle its coaching staff.
This revolving door of coaches has included both local and foreign tacticians, each tasked with reviving the team’s fortunes but ultimately falling short of expectations.
The national team’s inconsistent results have led FAM to continuously seek new strategies and leadership, hoping to find the right formula for success.
Among the 13 coaches hired since 2010 are notable figures such as Kinnah Phiri, Ronny van Geneugden, and Meck Mwase, all of whom had varied tenures.
While some coaches, like Kinnah Phiri, managed to lead the team to significant victories, including qualification for the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), others struggled to meet expectations in major tournaments and international competitions.
The decision to employ such a large number of coaches within a relatively short period suggests a lack of long-term planning and vision.
Constantly changing leadership disrupts the team’s continuity, player development, and strategic execution.
Critics argue that the instability has contributed to the Flames’ inconsistent performance on the field, as each coach brings new systems and philosophies, making it difficult for the players to adapt and form cohesive playing styles.
FAM’s desperation is understandable, given the immense pressure from fans and stakeholders to see Malawi excel on the international stage.
However, some analysts believe that the association’s approach may be counterproductive.
They suggest that instead of frequent changes, FAM should focus on investing in long-term development programs, youth systems, and building a strong technical team that can nurture talent and provide stability over time.
As FAM continues its search for a winning formula, the challenge remains: Can the association balance the need for immediate results with the importance of building a sustainable football structure for Malawi’s future success?
The Flames’ future depends not only on the next coach but on a broader commitment to consistent development and strategic planning.
