AFTER going on a rigorous rebuilding exercise ahead of the 2025 premier league season most football fans, especially rivals, are eager to see what Scottland FC has to offer on the field of play.
Scottland FC discarded most players who ensured its promotion from the ZIFA Northern Region Division 1 league. Only four remained; the rest, including fan favourite Denver Mukamba, were cut off.
With superstar Khama Billiat, Warriors star Walter Musona, 2024 top goal scorer Lynoth Chikuhwa and three other Soccer Star of the Year finalists in its books, the Scott Sakupwanya moneybags will surely have a lot to prove.
BHORAFRIKA Magazine (BA) sat down with recently appointed chief executive officer (CEO) Ronald Moyo (RM) for a tête-à-tête and below is an excerpt from our discussion.
BA: We understand you already have an existing clubhouse and expect to open another. All this comes after you built such a strong squad. What other investments have you earmarked for the team?
RM: We are committed to investing in the team’s infrastructure, including upgrading our training facilities and expanding our youth development programs. We are also exploring opportunities to enhance our fans’ experience, including improving our stadium and creating engaging match-day activities.
BA: Is there no pressure to deliver, considering the massive investments which have been published be it in terms of infrastructure or the team?
RM: While there is always pressure to perform, we are focused on building a sustainable and successful football club over the long term. We are not getting ahead of ourselves. We are taking it one step at a time. We have stakeholders who are committed to the president’s vision, and we are working together to achieve our goals.
BA: What would constitute a successful season for Scottland FC this year?
RM: A successful season for us would be finishing in a respectable position in the league, competing strongly in the cup competitions, making progress in our youth development programmes and making progress in our commercial activities.
Ultimately, we want to create a football club that our fans can be proud of.
BA: What have you noted as the difference between Highlanders and Scottland FC in the short time you have been CEO?
RM: Highlanders has a very rich history and passionate fans; Scottland FC is a relatively new club with a fresh perspective. We are building from the ground up, and that brings its own set of challenges and opportunities. We are focused on creating a strong foundation for the club’s future success.
BA: What do you think is the fate of traditional giants such as Dynamos, Highlanders and Caps United in the wake of new, well-resourced teams such as yours?
RM: The landscape of Zimbabwean football is changing, and it is exciting to see new teams emerging and challenging the traditional powerhouses.
While the traditional giants have a rich history and loyal fan bases, the new teams are bringing a fresh perspective and investment to the league.
Ultimately, this increased competition will raise the standards of Zimbabwean football and benefit the sport as a whole.
