By NDINAWE SIMPELWE –
FORMER Zambia assistant coach Patrice Beaumelle has ruled himself out from taking up the Chipolopolo coaching job.
The Football Association of Zambia has received 17 applications for the job but the association was also considering Beaumelle, who was Herve Renard’s assistant when Zambia won the Africa Cup in 2012.
But in an interview yesterday, Beaumelle said he was flattered to be considered among the coaches to take up the job but could not because he had to honour his three-year contract with the Moroccan Royal Football Association.
He said he had received a lot of messages from Zambians supporting him to return to the Chipolopolo as head coach because of the good relationship he has with the fans and FAZ.
“Of course I’m honoured to be part of the short list of the coaches approached to take the job. But I signed a three-year contract with the Moroccan Royal FA and I have to respect it. I have indeed received several messages from Zambian people as support, and I am flattered,” Beaumelle said.
FAZ general secretary Ponga Liwewe confirmed on Wednesday that the association would soon shortlist four candidates who would be interviewed with an appointment expected as early as next week.
Beaumelle together with fellow Frenchman Phillipie Trousier were tipped to be the favourites for the job.
Beaumelle said he was sure his attachment to Zambia was not over as he was hopeful of returning to lead the national team very soon.
He said Zambia was his second home adding that FAZ had contributed a lot to making him what he is today which will remain in his heart forever.
“I spent four years in Zambia as number two (assistant coach of Chipolopolo) and one year as head coach. I have no doubt that one day I will come back to Zambia soon or later. Zambia is my home like France.
“I really love Mother Zambia. Zambia and FAZ have contributed to make me who I’m. Zambia and Chipolopolo are in my heart for the rest of my life. Let’s go Zambia,” he said.