‘Building the Next Generation’: Willard Katsande Sets His Sights on Coaching Zimbabwe’s Youth National Teams
Willard Katsande is preparing for a chapter few expected from the former Kaizer Chiefs midfield enforcer.
Instead of chasing high-profile coaching positions, he wants to start where he believes Zimbabwe’s long-term football problems can be fixed — with the juniors.
Katsande is openly expressing his ambition to guide the country’s Under-17 and Under-20 national teams, positioning himself as part of a broader developmental shift.
Why Katsande Believes Change Must Start at Junior Level
Speaking to FARPost, Katsande said that Zimbabwe’s struggles at senior level are a direct result of “patchwork football” that overlooks preparation at foundational stages.
He argues that a proper structure at U-17 and U-20 level can supply the Warriors with technically and tactically equipped players, eliminating the constant scramble for ready-made stars.
Katsande’s passion comes from his ongoing work with grassroots players through his Kitoko Soccer School in South Africa. He says this exposure has shown him the gap in Zimbabwe’s youth systems and the urgency to build something more strategic and modern.
Lessons Drawn From South Africa’s Youth Model
Katsande has been closely observing South Africa’s recent progress with its junior national teams. He points to the Amajimbos’ tactical development and the rise of young talents like Emile Witbooi, who is already featuring in the senior side at Cape Town City FC.
He also admires how South Africa’s U-20 side — fresh from winning the AFCON — is producing players ready for big leagues and first-team football, including Tylon Smith, Neo Rapoo, Mfundo Vilakazi and Sundowns prospects Siyabonga Mabena and Kutlwano Lethlaku.
His Blueprint for Zimbabwe
Speaking to FARPost, Katsande explained that his aim is to build junior teams that mirror international trends in tactical education and physical conditioning.
He believes this balance will create players capable of handling elite competition from a young age.
He referenced Ghana’s 2010 World Cup squad as a model worth emulating — a team powered by U-20 graduates like André Ayew who rose through a well-defined pathway. For Katsande, the message is simple: real transformation starts long before a player wears the senior jersey.
Coaching Journey Already Underway
Katsande has recently taken steps to formalise his coaching career. He completed his CAF C Licence and will progress to CAF B in 2026. His long-term dream is clear — to play a key role in shaping the next wave of Zimbabwean footballers.
“Our junior teams must be competitive again. If we get that right, the senior national team will take care of itself. The players we develop today will carry Zimbabwe for the next decade,” he said.
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The post Former Kaizer Chiefs Star Sets His Sights on Coaching Zimbabwe’s Youth National Teams appeared first on iHarare News.
