Former Peterborough defender Gabriel Zakuani, born in Kinshasa, is now a key technical consultant spearheading the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) national team’s recruitment of players from the European diaspora.
His efforts are crucial as “The Leopards” prepare for a World Cup play-off semi-final and the Africa Cup of Nations.
Zakuani has successfully recruited Premier League players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Yoane Wissa. He previously convinced Yannick Bolasie to join the team, starting his unofficial talent spotter role.
Zakuani’s job is “gruelling,” involving personal research to identify players of Congolese heritage.
He emphasized that the parents are the “key,” as visiting them and speaking as a former DR Congo captain helps secure the player’s commitment, particularly when the player is overlooked by their European youth nations.
Zakuani noted that the switch is now easier due to significant improvements in DR Congo’s training facilities and standards.
His ability to speak eight languages also aids in integrating players from French and English-speaking countries, minimizing communication barriers.
DR Congo is following a global trend, with countries like Morocco and Algeria also actively recruiting their diaspora talent.
